Feedbackhttp://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006slnx Radio 4's forum for comments, queries, criticisms and congratulationsRadio 4's forum for comments, queries, criticisms and congratulationsBBC Radio 4BBCpodcast.support@bbc.co.ukenhttp://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/1408x1408/p02r4yf3.jpgFeedbackhttp://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006slnx (C) BBC 2015Sun, 02 Aug 2015 01:00:00 +0100nononadult31/07/2015Radio 4's forum for listener comment.Radio 4's forum for listener comment.Radio 4's forum for listener comment.Sun, 02 Aug 2015 01:00:00 +01001668urn:bbc:podcast:b063dch2http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02yh2bq.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b063dch224/07/2015The Government has opened the public consultation period on the future of the BBC - but how much impact will your views have on their decision? The BBC Trust has also launched its own public consultation. Some Feedback listeners say they're confused about the process and what they're being consulted on. Roger Bolton sheds some light on the process.
For the last three weeks, Radio 4's One to One interview has featured Selina Scott looking at the world of ghostly apparitions. The series has drawn criticism from some listeners, who felt that a more scientific and challenging approach was needed. Series Producer Lucy Lunt discusses whether there is a place on Radio 4 for the spiritual and non-scientific.
Feedback about the quality of science reporting often appears in our inbox - some listeners cry 'oversimplification' and 'sensationalism'. But in this week's programme we hear from a listener with cautious praise for a Today Programme report on a possible link between tobacco and psychosis. Journalists dealing with health and science have to report in a world of competitive academia and commercial pharmaceuticals, with reports and studies vying for influence and publicity. Roger speaks to the BBC's Health Correspondent Jane Dreaper, to find out how she approaches reporting scientific research and potential medical breakthroughs.
And finally, Oasis songwriter Noel Gallagher sat down with Kirtsy Young to choose his Desert Island Discs this week. While some listeners thought that the Britpop Mancunian wasn't really Desert Island Discs material, many others praised the programme for revealing Gallagher's softer side.
Producer: Katherine Godfrey
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Health reporting and ghosts on Radio 4. And what is the public's view on the BBC's future?The Government has opened the public consultation period on the future of the BBC - but how much impact will your views have on their decision? The BBC Trust has also launched its own public consultation. Some Feedback listeners say they're confused about the process and what they're being consulted on. Roger Bolton sheds some light on the process.
For the last three weeks, Radio 4's One to One interview has featured Selina Scott looking at the world of ghostly apparitions. The series has drawn criticism from some listeners, who felt that a more scientific and challenging approach was needed. Series Producer Lucy Lunt discusses whether there is a place on Radio 4 for the spiritual and non-scientific.
Feedback about the quality of science reporting often appears in our inbox - some listeners cry 'oversimplification' and 'sensationalism'. But in this week's programme we hear from a listener with cautious praise for a Today Programme report on a possible link between tobacco and psychosis. Journalists dealing with health and science have to report in a world of competitive academia and commercial pharmaceuticals, with reports and studies vying for influence and publicity. Roger speaks to the BBC's Health Correspondent Jane Dreaper, to find out how she approaches reporting scientific research and potential medical breakthroughs.
And finally, Oasis songwriter Noel Gallagher sat down with Kirtsy Young to choose his Desert Island Discs this week. While some listeners thought that the Britpop Mancunian wasn't really Desert Island Discs material, many others praised the programme for revealing Gallagher's softer side.
Producer: Katherine Godfrey
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 26 Jul 2015 01:00:00 +01001666urn:bbc:podcast:b062ndjthttp://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02xxy1g.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b062ndjt17/07/2015The debate over the future of the BBC continues, with the size, structure, funding and remit of the Corporation now up for discussion. As the Department of Culture, Media and Sport open their twelve week public consultation on the future of the Beeb, Feedback listeners speak to Roger Bolton about their views.
Also, Feedback listeners celebrate some good news - the arrival of radio downloads. From this week, almost all radio content will be available for download onto smart phones and tablets via the newly updated BBC iPlayer radio app. Roger speaks to Mark Friend, the Controller of Multiplatform for Radio and Music, to find out about the changes and why downloads for radio have taken so much longer to introduce than the equivalent service for television programmes.
Last year, Tony Hall said he wanted to "break down the walls" between the corporation and the country's artists and artistic institutions. A new Radio 4 series, Will Gompertz Gets Creative, is attempting to go further by exploring the everyday artistic activity of normal people and encouraging all of us to 'get creative'. The first episode visited a life drawing class in Brighton in a bid to inspire people to engage with the arts. Did it work? Will Gompertz calls Feedback listeners to find out whether the programme has given them the artistic bug.
Producer: Katherine Godfrey
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Listener comments on the BBC's future, iPlayer downloads and life-drawing on the radio.The debate over the future of the BBC continues, with the size, structure, funding and remit of the Corporation now up for discussion. As the Department of Culture, Media and Sport open their twelve week public consultation on the future of the Beeb, Feedback listeners speak to Roger Bolton about their views.
Also, Feedback listeners celebrate some good news - the arrival of radio downloads. From this week, almost all radio content will be available for download onto smart phones and tablets via the newly updated BBC iPlayer radio app. Roger speaks to Mark Friend, the Controller of Multiplatform for Radio and Music, to find out about the changes and why downloads for radio have taken so much longer to introduce than the equivalent service for television programmes.
Last year, Tony Hall said he wanted to "break down the walls" between the corporation and the country's artists and artistic institutions. A new Radio 4 series, Will Gompertz Gets Creative, is attempting to go further by exploring the everyday artistic activity of normal people and encouraging all of us to 'get creative'. The first episode visited a life drawing class in Brighton in a bid to inspire people to engage with the arts. Did it work? Will Gompertz calls Feedback listeners to find out whether the programme has given them the artistic bug.
Producer: Katherine Godfrey
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 19 Jul 2015 01:00:00 +01001667urn:bbc:podcast:b061txyzhttp://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02xb9nn.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b061txyz10/07/2015The Licence Fee and the future of the BBC.
Director General Tony Hall has agreed to fund licences for the over 75s but says he's got a good deal for the corporation, citing the agreement that the Licence Fee will rise in line with inflation and those who only use catch-up services such as iPlayer may also need to buy a licence. Meanwhile, the Chair of the BBC Trust - your representative - was locked out of negotiations and others in the worlds of media and politics have been scathing about the lack of public consultation. Roger Bolton hears the views of Feedback listeners.
The Proms are coming back to the World Service - five years after they were cut to save money. Roger speaks to controller of the BBC World Service in English, Mary Hockaday, to see where the money is coming from at a station with an even more tightly squeezed budget, following the transfer of financial responsibility for the network from the Foreign Office to the BBC last year.
Apple Music launched its new internet radio station Beats 1 last week, and some people said that it sounded a great deal like BBC Radio 1. So should the BBC be worried about having their younger listeners poached? Feedback puts 19 year old radio DJ Oré Olukoga on the case to see whether Apple can inspire a generation which is increasingly uninterested in live radio broadcasts.
The five part Radio 4 series Me, My Selfie and I, presented by snowboarder Aimee Fuller, took on the subject of the selfie - but some listeners thought this was a shallow attempt to pick up a younger audience. Roger puts their concerns to the series producer Phillip Revell.
Producer: Katherine Godfrey
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Views on the BBC licence fee settlement and verdicts on Apple's new radio station.The Licence Fee and the future of the BBC.
Director General Tony Hall has agreed to fund licences for the over 75s but says he's got a good deal for the corporation, citing the agreement that the Licence Fee will rise in line with inflation and those who only use catch-up services such as iPlayer may also need to buy a licence. Meanwhile, the Chair of the BBC Trust - your representative - was locked out of negotiations and others in the worlds of media and politics have been scathing about the lack of public consultation. Roger Bolton hears the views of Feedback listeners.
The Proms are coming back to the World Service - five years after they were cut to save money. Roger speaks to controller of the BBC World Service in English, Mary Hockaday, to see where the money is coming from at a station with an even more tightly squeezed budget, following the transfer of financial responsibility for the network from the Foreign Office to the BBC last year.
Apple Music launched its new internet radio station Beats 1 last week, and some people said that it sounded a great deal like BBC Radio 1. So should the BBC be worried about having their younger listeners poached? Feedback puts 19 year old radio DJ Oré Olukoga on the case to see whether Apple can inspire a generation which is increasingly uninterested in live radio broadcasts.
The five part Radio 4 series Me, My Selfie and I, presented by snowboarder Aimee Fuller, took on the subject of the selfie - but some listeners thought this was a shallow attempt to pick up a younger audience. Roger puts their concerns to the series producer Phillip Revell.
Producer: Katherine Godfrey
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 12 Jul 2015 01:00:00 +01001658urn:bbc:podcast:b0612rhqhttp://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02wr6ht.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b0612rhq03/07/2015Roger Bolton looks at the battle for control of language.
More than 120 MPs have written a letter to the BBC's Director General calling for an end to use of the name "Islamic State" in news reporting. David Cameron is among those calling for a change of terminology, saying that many Muslims recoil from the name. Radio 4 and World Service listeners tell us what they think the BBC should call the group and consider whether a change in terminology would weaken Islamic State, or weaken the BBC's impartiality.
There are also concerns about the terminology used by the BBC when reporting immigration. Roger investigates whether listeners' concerns are about inaccuracy or the potential for stoking animosity.
The biggest job in BBC Radio Comedy - the host of The News Quiz - has gone to Miles Jupp. But what do our listeners think of the new appointment, and can Miles fill Sandi Toksvig's tiny shoes?
Miles is a household name for Radio 4 listeners but BBC Radio is also on the lookout for new talent with the 2015 BBC Radio New Comedy Awards. Roger speaks to Marcus Brigstocke and Angela Barnes to find out what it takes to make it in the world of radio comedy.
And why, why, why, did Tom Jones' song Delilah offend one of Feedback's listeners? Roger speaks with Jeff Smith, Head of Music at BBC Radio 2 and 6 Music, to find out how the BBC approaches older songs covering potentially controversial themes.
Producer: Katherine Godfrey
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Should the BBC use the name Islamic State? And Marcus Brigstocke on future radio comedy.Roger Bolton looks at the battle for control of language.
More than 120 MPs have written a letter to the BBC's Director General calling for an end to use of the name "Islamic State" in news reporting. David Cameron is among those calling for a change of terminology, saying that many Muslims recoil from the name. Radio 4 and World Service listeners tell us what they think the BBC should call the group and consider whether a change in terminology would weaken Islamic State, or weaken the BBC's impartiality.
There are also concerns about the terminology used by the BBC when reporting immigration. Roger investigates whether listeners' concerns are about inaccuracy or the potential for stoking animosity.
The biggest job in BBC Radio Comedy - the host of The News Quiz - has gone to Miles Jupp. But what do our listeners think of the new appointment, and can Miles fill Sandi Toksvig's tiny shoes?
Miles is a household name for Radio 4 listeners but BBC Radio is also on the lookout for new talent with the 2015 BBC Radio New Comedy Awards. Roger speaks to Marcus Brigstocke and Angela Barnes to find out what it takes to make it in the world of radio comedy.
And why, why, why, did Tom Jones' song Delilah offend one of Feedback's listeners? Roger speaks with Jeff Smith, Head of Music at BBC Radio 2 and 6 Music, to find out how the BBC approaches older songs covering potentially controversial themes.
Producer: Katherine Godfrey
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 05 Jul 2015 01:00:00 +01001663urn:bbc:podcast:b061039thttp://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02w6r0q.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b061039t26/06/2015What risks should journalists take to report stories? In this week's Feedback, Roger Bolton visits BBC journalists on a training course which aims to prepare them to report from dangerous conflict zones and hostile environments. Listeners have been pondering whether the risks are worth it in order to report the story to them. Roger brings the BBC's Chief International Correspondent Lyse Doucet together with senior BBC producer Stuart Hughes and Vaughan Smith, founder of the Frontline Club, to discuss the issues.
And, after weeks of speculation, Chris Evans was named as the new presenter of Top Gear last week. But some of his 10 million Radio 2 listeners think he's been talking about it far too much in the days since the announcement. Helen Thomas, the editor of The Chris Evans Breakfast Show, answers the listeners.
Also this week: "History is the version of past events that people have decided to agree upon." That was apparently the view of Napoleon Bonaparte. But some Feedback listeners don't agree with the version of Napoleon's life which historian Andrew Roberts delivered in his series on Radio 4. Professor Roberts defends his portrayal of the French Emperor.
Producer: Katherine Godfrey.
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.Top Gear talk on Radio 2. Plus Andrew Roberts on Napoleon, and Lyse Doucet talks safety.What risks should journalists take to report stories? In this week's Feedback, Roger Bolton visits BBC journalists on a training course which aims to prepare them to report from dangerous conflict zones and hostile environments. Listeners have been pondering whether the risks are worth it in order to report the story to them. Roger brings the BBC's Chief International Correspondent Lyse Doucet together with senior BBC producer Stuart Hughes and Vaughan Smith, founder of the Frontline Club, to discuss the issues.
And, after weeks of speculation, Chris Evans was named as the new presenter of Top Gear last week. But some of his 10 million Radio 2 listeners think he's been talking about it far too much in the days since the announcement. Helen Thomas, the editor of The Chris Evans Breakfast Show, answers the listeners.
Also this week: "History is the version of past events that people have decided to agree upon." That was apparently the view of Napoleon Bonaparte. But some Feedback listeners don't agree with the version of Napoleon's life which historian Andrew Roberts delivered in his series on Radio 4. Professor Roberts defends his portrayal of the French Emperor.
Producer: Katherine Godfrey.
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 28 Jun 2015 01:00:00 +01001655urn:bbc:podcast:b05zlh4khttp://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02vmwxn.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b05zlh4k19/06/2015Radio 4's forum for listener comment.Radio 4's forum for listener comment.Radio 4's forum for listener comment.Sun, 21 Jun 2015 01:00:00 +01001665urn:bbc:podcast:b05y178vhttp://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02v2wd3.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b05y178v24/04/2015Has the BBC's impartiality been compromised in the lead up to the General Election? With less than two weeks to polling day, political leaders are near ever-present on the airwaves as they try to secure votes. BBC networks - including Radio 1, 5Live and Radio 4 - have been connecting party leaders directly to the public in a series of live debates. Listeners flocked to social media to comment as the programmes were broadcast - and some of their comments complained about biased presenters and audiences. Ric Bailey, the BBC's Chief Political Adviser, discusses how impartiality should be achieved during the intensity of the campaign season.
Nearly 40 years ago, Radio 3 created the 'Pied Piper' programme to appeal to younger listeners and develop their love of classical music from an early age. Current Radio 3 Controller Alan Davey discusses the station's role in bringing culture to a younger generation.
An alien world, a landscape of frozen ice and characters with no gender are not perhaps the typical elements of a drama on Radio 4. But in celebration of cult science fiction writer Ursula Le Guin's 85th birthday, Radio 4 and 4Extra have dedicated this month to her fantasy literature. Judith Adams worked alongside director Allegra McIllroy to adapt the 300 page novel into a two hour radio play. But how did they voice characters that were neither male nor female?
And how has the Shipping Forecast impacted and inspired our lives over the years? Author Charlie Connelly recounts his fondest anecdotes - from his own life and the lives of listeners around the British Isles.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistlkedown production for BBC Radio 4.The BBC's impartiality during the election and the inspiration of the Shipping Forecast.Has the BBC's impartiality been compromised in the lead up to the General Election? With less than two weeks to polling day, political leaders are near ever-present on the airwaves as they try to secure votes. BBC networks - including Radio 1, 5Live and Radio 4 - have been connecting party leaders directly to the public in a series of live debates. Listeners flocked to social media to comment as the programmes were broadcast - and some of their comments complained about biased presenters and audiences. Ric Bailey, the BBC's Chief Political Adviser, discusses how impartiality should be achieved during the intensity of the campaign season.
Nearly 40 years ago, Radio 3 created the 'Pied Piper' programme to appeal to younger listeners and develop their love of classical music from an early age. Current Radio 3 Controller Alan Davey discusses the station's role in bringing culture to a younger generation.
An alien world, a landscape of frozen ice and characters with no gender are not perhaps the typical elements of a drama on Radio 4. But in celebration of cult science fiction writer Ursula Le Guin's 85th birthday, Radio 4 and 4Extra have dedicated this month to her fantasy literature. Judith Adams worked alongside director Allegra McIllroy to adapt the 300 page novel into a two hour radio play. But how did they voice characters that were neither male nor female?
And how has the Shipping Forecast impacted and inspired our lives over the years? Author Charlie Connelly recounts his fondest anecdotes - from his own life and the lives of listeners around the British Isles.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistlkedown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 26 Apr 2015 01:00:00 +01001663http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20150424-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02s1kq3.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b05r6zy717/04/2015This week, our look at how the election is being covered across BBC radio takes us to 5Live for the launch of their #FridayTakeover. Each week, the station is selecting one key politician to face individual listener questions. Stephen Mawhinney, the station's Head of News, explains how the nature of a political interview changes when led by the public while presenter Nicky Campbell discusses the balance between handing the reins over to listeners and knowing when to regain control.
The recent Trust review of BBC music stations concluded that Radio 3 needs to make its identity and programming more distinctive in certain areas. Recently appointed Controller Alan Davey has begun to set out his vision for the station's future and, in this week's Feedback, he addresses listeners points about what they want.
The History of Ideas series hosted by Melvyn Bragg has provided listeners with much food for thought on subjects of freedom, morality and the origin of time. Yet, despite offering heavyweight discussions that demand the full attention of their audience, the use of sound effects and cartoon noises has led to complaints from some listeners.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Radio 5 live listeners pin down politicians with their questions.This week, our look at how the election is being covered across BBC radio takes us to 5Live for the launch of their #FridayTakeover. Each week, the station is selecting one key politician to face individual listener questions. Stephen Mawhinney, the station's Head of News, explains how the nature of a political interview changes when led by the public while presenter Nicky Campbell discusses the balance between handing the reins over to listeners and knowing when to regain control.
The recent Trust review of BBC music stations concluded that Radio 3 needs to make its identity and programming more distinctive in certain areas. Recently appointed Controller Alan Davey has begun to set out his vision for the station's future and, in this week's Feedback, he addresses listeners points about what they want.
The History of Ideas series hosted by Melvyn Bragg has provided listeners with much food for thought on subjects of freedom, morality and the origin of time. Yet, despite offering heavyweight discussions that demand the full attention of their audience, the use of sound effects and cartoon noises has led to complaints from some listeners.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 19 Apr 2015 01:00:00 +01001649http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20150417-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02s1hys.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b05qk6zb10/04/2015The Easter weekend is a prime opportunity for regular radio presenters to take a step out of the spotlight and into the sun for some rest and relaxation. But their stand-in presenters can be left to face the disappointment of an audience devoted to their favourite host. What are the challenges facing stand-ins and how do they overcome them? Lewis Carnie, the head of Radio 2 programmes, discusses how Sara Cox and Zoe Ball have filled in for leading men Chris Evans and Ken Bruce.
The spring breaks also produced trials for users of the BBC Radio iPlayer. As listeners got heavily engrossed in hair-raising dramas and eye-opening documentaries - they were left hanging mid-sentence as iPlayer Radio failed to give them the last few minutes of the programme. The General Manager for Audience Facing Services at BBC Future Media, Andrew Scott, clarifies what happened and how he is working to prevent future failings.
And in the election campaign coverage, BBC local radio has launched a series of 170 debates taking place across the country. David Holdsworth, the controller of English Regions, explains why issues affecting smaller communities are still key to political coverage. Station Editor David Harvey outlines how Radio Cambridgeshire is reflecting its listeners' main concerns. And, behind the scenes at BBC Essex's first local debate, producer Mark Syred lets listeners shine a light on what they see as the biggest question in their community.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Listeners get into bed with MPs, but waking up with Sara Cox is not everyone's cup of tea.The Easter weekend is a prime opportunity for regular radio presenters to take a step out of the spotlight and into the sun for some rest and relaxation. But their stand-in presenters can be left to face the disappointment of an audience devoted to their favourite host. What are the challenges facing stand-ins and how do they overcome them? Lewis Carnie, the head of Radio 2 programmes, discusses how Sara Cox and Zoe Ball have filled in for leading men Chris Evans and Ken Bruce.
The spring breaks also produced trials for users of the BBC Radio iPlayer. As listeners got heavily engrossed in hair-raising dramas and eye-opening documentaries - they were left hanging mid-sentence as iPlayer Radio failed to give them the last few minutes of the programme. The General Manager for Audience Facing Services at BBC Future Media, Andrew Scott, clarifies what happened and how he is working to prevent future failings.
And in the election campaign coverage, BBC local radio has launched a series of 170 debates taking place across the country. David Holdsworth, the controller of English Regions, explains why issues affecting smaller communities are still key to political coverage. Station Editor David Harvey outlines how Radio Cambridgeshire is reflecting its listeners' main concerns. And, behind the scenes at BBC Essex's first local debate, producer Mark Syred lets listeners shine a light on what they see as the biggest question in their community.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 12 Apr 2015 01:00:00 +01001652http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20150410-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppskw.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b05prkhr03/04/2015It's five weeks to Polling Day. As part of our investigation into how different BBC networks are covering the election, Roger Bolton talks to the political team of Radio 1's Newsbeat. Young listeners ask editor Louisa Compton how the coverage will be tailored to the age and interests of the Radio 1 audience.
And what effect did the sounds of a glacier, a football crowd and a dawn chorus have on our listeners? Sound recordist Chris Watson produced a series of audio postcards - each Exploring the sound of a spectacular natural event in compressed time. Chris Watson explains how he risked life and limb in the middle of the Kalahari Desert - but which of the sounds was the most challenging to record?
Sound also infiltrated the Today Programme this week. Sarah Montague visited the café of the Tyneside Cinema in Newcastle as part of their coverage of '100 constituencies in 100 days' - but did clattering background noise make it too difficult to listen.
Radio 4 Drama 'Far Side of the Moore' brought astronomer and former BBC presenter Patrick Moore's voice back to life. Listeners praise actor Tom Hollander for his authentic portrayal of the late astronomer's quirks and eccentricity.
And the results of the Feedback twitter challenge are revealed - did anyone correctly guess which animal inspired our alternative Tweet of the Day?
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.How Radio 1 is engaging young voters, and a Radio 4 sound man's close shave with a lion.It's five weeks to Polling Day. As part of our investigation into how different BBC networks are covering the election, Roger Bolton talks to the political team of Radio 1's Newsbeat. Young listeners ask editor Louisa Compton how the coverage will be tailored to the age and interests of the Radio 1 audience.
And what effect did the sounds of a glacier, a football crowd and a dawn chorus have on our listeners? Sound recordist Chris Watson produced a series of audio postcards - each Exploring the sound of a spectacular natural event in compressed time. Chris Watson explains how he risked life and limb in the middle of the Kalahari Desert - but which of the sounds was the most challenging to record?
Sound also infiltrated the Today Programme this week. Sarah Montague visited the café of the Tyneside Cinema in Newcastle as part of their coverage of '100 constituencies in 100 days' - but did clattering background noise make it too difficult to listen.
Radio 4 Drama 'Far Side of the Moore' brought astronomer and former BBC presenter Patrick Moore's voice back to life. Listeners praise actor Tom Hollander for his authentic portrayal of the late astronomer's quirks and eccentricity.
And the results of the Feedback twitter challenge are revealed - did anyone correctly guess which animal inspired our alternative Tweet of the Day?
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 05 Apr 2015 01:00:00 +01001661http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20150403-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppskt.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b05pb06z27/03/2015Roger Bolton goes behind the scenes at BBC Westminster to see how they're gearing up for the 2015 General Election. He talks to Katy Searle, the Editor of Political News about the pressures on journalists, while Deputy Political Editor James Landale reveals how he got a headline story from Prime Minister David Cameron.
And changes to the layout of the BBC news website have dismayed some Feedback listeners who feel they are being force fed certain stories. Robin Pembrooke, the General Manager for News Products, supervised the revamp and explains how the BBC is adapting to changes in the way people access information.
After nearly 50 years, a radio institution is coming to an end in July. The Radio 1 Chart Show has been a fixture on Sunday evenings since 1967 but Radio 1's controller Ben Cooper has announced the programme is moving to Friday afternoons and being shortened. He says he had little choice after the Official Charts Company announced they were going to release the chart on Fridays - making a Sunday show seem a little late. Music journalist Pete Paphides gives Feedback his personal memories of a childhood obsession with the Charts.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Behind the scenes at BBC Westminster and a nostalgic look back at the Sunday chart show.Roger Bolton goes behind the scenes at BBC Westminster to see how they're gearing up for the 2015 General Election. He talks to Katy Searle, the Editor of Political News about the pressures on journalists, while Deputy Political Editor James Landale reveals how he got a headline story from Prime Minister David Cameron.
And changes to the layout of the BBC news website have dismayed some Feedback listeners who feel they are being force fed certain stories. Robin Pembrooke, the General Manager for News Products, supervised the revamp and explains how the BBC is adapting to changes in the way people access information.
After nearly 50 years, a radio institution is coming to an end in July. The Radio 1 Chart Show has been a fixture on Sunday evenings since 1967 but Radio 1's controller Ben Cooper has announced the programme is moving to Friday afternoons and being shortened. He says he had little choice after the Official Charts Company announced they were going to release the chart on Fridays - making a Sunday show seem a little late. Music journalist Pete Paphides gives Feedback his personal memories of a childhood obsession with the Charts.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 29 Mar 2015 00:00:00 +00001664http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20150327-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps74.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b05ns9mr20/03/2015On this week's programme with Roger Bolton: the BBC's Moscow Correspondent Sarah Rainsford on reporting from Putin's Russia, the Trust's review of BBC music radio and Radio 4's Listeners' Elections.
It's less than 50 days to go until this year's General Election and BBC Newsrooms are delving into the big issues of the economy and immigration. But now, Radio 4 wants to break down the election issues that matter most to its audience. The station is launching 'The Listener's Election'. It calls for listeners to submit stories that put the election campaigns into a more personal context. The BBC's Political Correspondent Chris Mason, who's behind the project, tells Roger how he hopes to reflect the UK's key concerns.
Should Radio 1 and 1xtra be making moves towards including more speech in their output? Does Radio 2 need to vary its specialist music programming? And is Radio 3 starting to sound like Classic FM? These are some of the points raised in the BBC Trust's review of all six music stations. The findings of the review have now been published and Roger talks to BBC Trustee Nick Prettejohn about the review.
The journalists' lobby group Reporters Without Borders ranks Russia at 152nd out of 176 countries in its Press Freedom Index and the Russian authorities seldom if ever talk to foreign press reporters, so how hard is it for the BBC's Russian correspondent to report accurately? Sarah Rainsford talks about the challenges of her job.
And the BBC's School Report set a group of Sussex school children the challenge of turning a newspaper headline into a radio drama. We get a sneak preview of a Royal Pain in the Parkside which finds Prince Harry pursuing a new career - on a caravan site.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Reporting from Putin's Russia and Radio 4's Listeners' Election.On this week's programme with Roger Bolton: the BBC's Moscow Correspondent Sarah Rainsford on reporting from Putin's Russia, the Trust's review of BBC music radio and Radio 4's Listeners' Elections.
It's less than 50 days to go until this year's General Election and BBC Newsrooms are delving into the big issues of the economy and immigration. But now, Radio 4 wants to break down the election issues that matter most to its audience. The station is launching 'The Listener's Election'. It calls for listeners to submit stories that put the election campaigns into a more personal context. The BBC's Political Correspondent Chris Mason, who's behind the project, tells Roger how he hopes to reflect the UK's key concerns.
Should Radio 1 and 1xtra be making moves towards including more speech in their output? Does Radio 2 need to vary its specialist music programming? And is Radio 3 starting to sound like Classic FM? These are some of the points raised in the BBC Trust's review of all six music stations. The findings of the review have now been published and Roger talks to BBC Trustee Nick Prettejohn about the review.
The journalists' lobby group Reporters Without Borders ranks Russia at 152nd out of 176 countries in its Press Freedom Index and the Russian authorities seldom if ever talk to foreign press reporters, so how hard is it for the BBC's Russian correspondent to report accurately? Sarah Rainsford talks about the challenges of her job.
And the BBC's School Report set a group of Sussex school children the challenge of turning a newspaper headline into a radio drama. We get a sneak preview of a Royal Pain in the Parkside which finds Prince Harry pursuing a new career - on a caravan site.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 22 Mar 2015 00:00:00 +00001659http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20150320-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps78.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b055k3r413/03/2015After a year and half in the driving seat for Radio 4's beloved radio soap opera The Archers, editor Sean O'Connor has created controversy amongst some dedicated listeners - with debate over a number of cast changes and the playing out of a Biblical flood over a week of programmes. This week, Sean O'Connor came into the Feedback studio to answer listeners' questions and comments.
C2C, the Country Music Festival, was held in London last weekend bringing the sounds of Nashville to a UK audience. This prompted BBC Radio 2 to launch a pop-up music station playing wall-to-wall Country music which was on-air for just four days. Radio 2 Controller Bob Shennan explains why they did it and whether they'll do it again.
And after last week's discussion on how the BBC should receive its funding in future, listeners respond to news from the National Audit Office that the corporation will face more spending cuts.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.The editor of The Archers answers listeners' questions about the show's recent storylines.After a year and half in the driving seat for Radio 4's beloved radio soap opera The Archers, editor Sean O'Connor has created controversy amongst some dedicated listeners - with debate over a number of cast changes and the playing out of a Biblical flood over a week of programmes. This week, Sean O'Connor came into the Feedback studio to answer listeners' questions and comments.
C2C, the Country Music Festival, was held in London last weekend bringing the sounds of Nashville to a UK audience. This prompted BBC Radio 2 to launch a pop-up music station playing wall-to-wall Country music which was on-air for just four days. Radio 2 Controller Bob Shennan explains why they did it and whether they'll do it again.
And after last week's discussion on how the BBC should receive its funding in future, listeners respond to news from the National Audit Office that the corporation will face more spending cuts.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 15 Mar 2015 00:00:00 +00001661http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20150313-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps7d.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b054tssg06/03/2015Is there a formula to successful comedy on Radio 4? Before leaving her post as Commissioning Editor of Comedy on Radio 4 and 4Extra, Caroline Raphael talks about her 17 years in the job and reveals which hugely successful comedy almost didn't make it to air because the Controller of Radio 4 at the time turned it down.
Also, the debate over the licence fee has been ignited by a report from the Commons Media Select Committee. It suggests replacing the licence fee with a universal levy for all households. Listeners are divided over the issue and Steven Barnett, Professor of Communications at the University of Westminster in London breaks down the pros and cons of the different ways the BBC might be funded in the future.
And on New Year's Day, a number of listeners were dismayed by their favourite Radio 4 programmes being moved to long wave to accommodate ten hours of War and Peace. Partly, they were concerned about the reception quality on long wave. This prompted vintage radio aficionado Sean Stevens to get in touch to set the record straight about what he sees as the joys of long wave.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.The secrets behind successful Radio 4 comedy. And is there a future for the licence fee?Is there a formula to successful comedy on Radio 4? Before leaving her post as Commissioning Editor of Comedy on Radio 4 and 4Extra, Caroline Raphael talks about her 17 years in the job and reveals which hugely successful comedy almost didn't make it to air because the Controller of Radio 4 at the time turned it down.
Also, the debate over the licence fee has been ignited by a report from the Commons Media Select Committee. It suggests replacing the licence fee with a universal levy for all households. Listeners are divided over the issue and Steven Barnett, Professor of Communications at the University of Westminster in London breaks down the pros and cons of the different ways the BBC might be funded in the future.
And on New Year's Day, a number of listeners were dismayed by their favourite Radio 4 programmes being moved to long wave to accommodate ten hours of War and Peace. Partly, they were concerned about the reception quality on long wave. This prompted vintage radio aficionado Sean Stevens to get in touch to set the record straight about what he sees as the joys of long wave.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 08 Mar 2015 00:00:00 +00001659http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20150306-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps7j.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b0543yjh27/02/2015Next week sees the last ever episode of Radio 4's long running investigative series Face the Facts. Radio 4 says it's part of an ongoing effort to cut costs. Presenter John Waite recounts his most memorable moments during his 30 years on the frontline of investigative journalism.
The Green Party was hoping to launch their election campaign in a blaze of positive publicity earlier this week. But after leader Natalie Bennett experienced what she called an "excruciating mind blank" in an interview, the story took a very different direction. The BBC ran the story throughout the day - but was this too much coverage of Bennett's 'brain fade' at the expense of serious analysis of party policy? Katy Searle, the Editor of Political Newsgathering for BBC News, explains why the story deserved its airtime and place on the news agenda.
And while the rest of the BBC is giving up on broadcasting children's radio, BBC Radio Cymru has launched Tic Toc, a new programme aimed at a younger audience. Can Radio Cymru find success where others have failed? Head of Radio Cymru, Betsan Powys, explains what makes her venture different.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Coverage of Natalie Bennett's 'brain fade', and listeners bid farewell to Face the Facts.Next week sees the last ever episode of Radio 4's long running investigative series Face the Facts. Radio 4 says it's part of an ongoing effort to cut costs. Presenter John Waite recounts his most memorable moments during his 30 years on the frontline of investigative journalism.
The Green Party was hoping to launch their election campaign in a blaze of positive publicity earlier this week. But after leader Natalie Bennett experienced what she called an "excruciating mind blank" in an interview, the story took a very different direction. The BBC ran the story throughout the day - but was this too much coverage of Bennett's 'brain fade' at the expense of serious analysis of party policy? Katy Searle, the Editor of Political Newsgathering for BBC News, explains why the story deserved its airtime and place on the news agenda.
And while the rest of the BBC is giving up on broadcasting children's radio, BBC Radio Cymru has launched Tic Toc, a new programme aimed at a younger audience. Can Radio Cymru find success where others have failed? Head of Radio Cymru, Betsan Powys, explains what makes her venture different.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 01 Mar 2015 00:00:00 +00001660http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20150227-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps7m.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b053c3pq20/02/2015The allied bombing of Dresden was one of the most controversial episodes of the Second World War - but was Radio 4's coverage of the 70th Anniversary too one-sided? The editor of Radio 4's Today programme, Jamie Angus, discusses how the BBC reflected on this historic event with a senior lecturer in War and Media at King's College London, Dr Peter Busch.
And the story behind how the BBC obtained a startling piece of audio from the shootings in Copenhagen. Toby Castle was duty editor in the BBC Newsroom at the time and he talks to Roger Bolton about why he decided the shocking audio could be put on air.
Also, an epic tale of endurance and self-sacrifice - listeners tell us how they managed to hear ten hours of War and Peace in one sitting.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Radio 4's coverage of the Dresden bombings and shocking audio from Copenhagen.The allied bombing of Dresden was one of the most controversial episodes of the Second World War - but was Radio 4's coverage of the 70th Anniversary too one-sided? The editor of Radio 4's Today programme, Jamie Angus, discusses how the BBC reflected on this historic event with a senior lecturer in War and Media at King's College London, Dr Peter Busch.
And the story behind how the BBC obtained a startling piece of audio from the shootings in Copenhagen. Toby Castle was duty editor in the BBC Newsroom at the time and he talks to Roger Bolton about why he decided the shocking audio could be put on air.
Also, an epic tale of endurance and self-sacrifice - listeners tell us how they managed to hear ten hours of War and Peace in one sitting.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 22 Feb 2015 00:00:00 +00001654http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20150220-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps7q.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b052mbjs13/02/2015Almost an entire day on Radio 4 was taken over by a dramatic airing of War and Peace at the start of the year. For some listeners it was a joy that kept them glued to their radios - for others it was a rude interruption to the schedule. Radio 4's Commissioning Editor for Drama, Jeremy Howe, explains why the network decided to broadcast wall-to-wall Tolstoy at the expense of regular programmes.
Also, the BBC's Director General Tony Hall has weighed into the ongoing debate about changes to The Archers. Jeremy Howe gives his reaction to the DG's intervention.
And is the BBC's news output little more than a barrage of bleak and dismal events? Is there space - or even a need - for more good news stories? Professor Charlie Beckett explored this question in his programme, Good News is No News. It generated debate on social media with many people saying they felt overwhelmed by negative news. So is it time for the BBC to give more focus to positive news stories?
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Was Radio 4 right to air ten hours of War and Peace? Plus do we need more good news?Almost an entire day on Radio 4 was taken over by a dramatic airing of War and Peace at the start of the year. For some listeners it was a joy that kept them glued to their radios - for others it was a rude interruption to the schedule. Radio 4's Commissioning Editor for Drama, Jeremy Howe, explains why the network decided to broadcast wall-to-wall Tolstoy at the expense of regular programmes.
Also, the BBC's Director General Tony Hall has weighed into the ongoing debate about changes to The Archers. Jeremy Howe gives his reaction to the DG's intervention.
And is the BBC's news output little more than a barrage of bleak and dismal events? Is there space - or even a need - for more good news stories? Professor Charlie Beckett explored this question in his programme, Good News is No News. It generated debate on social media with many people saying they felt overwhelmed by negative news. So is it time for the BBC to give more focus to positive news stories?
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 15 Feb 2015 00:00:00 +00001416http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20150213-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps7x.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b051w4dm19/12/2014Gwyneth Williams is in her fifth year as the controller of Radio 4 and has made her mark with various radical changes - including bringing a former Eastenders' producer to The Archers, cutting 12 minutes from You and Yours and bringing visualisation to a variety of Radio 4 programming.
For the final episode of this series, Feedback listeners speak directly to the Controller and give their views on the network. Loyal Archers Addicts ask how much free rein the editor should have when many listeners are unhappy with the programme's current direction.
Gwyneth is also asked whether there is a theme to the daily '12 o clock slot' that has divided listeners, and whether 15 minute programmes are long enough to over complex topics.
Radio 4's leap towards a dazzling digital future is also put under scrutiny as a listener asks whether radio programmes truly benefit from visual elements.
And how tight is her Radio 4 budget for programmes, given that even more cuts are coming soon?
Producer Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Listeners talk directly to the controller of Radio 4 about The Archers and budget cuts.Gwyneth Williams is in her fifth year as the controller of Radio 4 and has made her mark with various radical changes - including bringing a former Eastenders' producer to The Archers, cutting 12 minutes from You and Yours and bringing visualisation to a variety of Radio 4 programming.
For the final episode of this series, Feedback listeners speak directly to the Controller and give their views on the network. Loyal Archers Addicts ask how much free rein the editor should have when many listeners are unhappy with the programme's current direction.
Gwyneth is also asked whether there is a theme to the daily '12 o clock slot' that has divided listeners, and whether 15 minute programmes are long enough to over complex topics.
Radio 4's leap towards a dazzling digital future is also put under scrutiny as a listener asks whether radio programmes truly benefit from visual elements.
And how tight is her Radio 4 budget for programmes, given that even more cuts are coming soon?
Producer Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 21 Dec 2014 00:00:00 +00001653http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20141219-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps80.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b04v66ng12/12/2014Roger Bolton talks to investigative journalist Tom Mangold about The Silent Conspiracy, a programme he first began working on 35 years ago. The programme concerned Jeremy Thorpe, the charismatic leader of the Liberal Party between 1967 and 1976. Thorpe's political career was overshadowed by scandal when he was accused of conspiring to murder Norman Scott - a man who claimed to have been his lover at a time when homosexuality was illegal. He was acquitted of conspiracy to murder but soon withdrew from public life.
The day after he died last week, Radio 4 broadcast The Silent Conspiracy, in which veteran BBC journalist Tom Mangold uncovered an alleged establishment conspiracy to protect Jeremy Thorpe's career and reputation. Many listeners questioned the tone and timing of the programme. Roger talks to Tom about the making of the programme and why he felt it was in the public interest.
Michael Buerk has survived life in the Australian outback and returned as chair of Radio 4's Moral Maze. To welcome him back, his programme team chose reality TV as the subject for the last episode in the series. Not letting him escape the spotlight, Buerk was declared a star witness. But after frequent updates of his jungle antics on the PM programme - was this an in-joke too far?
What does it take to find "extraordinary stories and remarkable guests"? Roger goes behind-the-scenes at Saturday Live to discover how they blend celebrity interviews and inheritance tracks with tales straight from listeners' mouths.
And more musical archives are restored following last week's revival of Radio 4's Singing Together.
Produced by Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Tom Mangold on establishment conspiracies and the BBC, and reality TV in the Moral Maze.Roger Bolton talks to investigative journalist Tom Mangold about The Silent Conspiracy, a programme he first began working on 35 years ago. The programme concerned Jeremy Thorpe, the charismatic leader of the Liberal Party between 1967 and 1976. Thorpe's political career was overshadowed by scandal when he was accused of conspiring to murder Norman Scott - a man who claimed to have been his lover at a time when homosexuality was illegal. He was acquitted of conspiracy to murder but soon withdrew from public life.
The day after he died last week, Radio 4 broadcast The Silent Conspiracy, in which veteran BBC journalist Tom Mangold uncovered an alleged establishment conspiracy to protect Jeremy Thorpe's career and reputation. Many listeners questioned the tone and timing of the programme. Roger talks to Tom about the making of the programme and why he felt it was in the public interest.
Michael Buerk has survived life in the Australian outback and returned as chair of Radio 4's Moral Maze. To welcome him back, his programme team chose reality TV as the subject for the last episode in the series. Not letting him escape the spotlight, Buerk was declared a star witness. But after frequent updates of his jungle antics on the PM programme - was this an in-joke too far?
What does it take to find "extraordinary stories and remarkable guests"? Roger goes behind-the-scenes at Saturday Live to discover how they blend celebrity interviews and inheritance tracks with tales straight from listeners' mouths.
And more musical archives are restored following last week's revival of Radio 4's Singing Together.
Produced by Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 14 Dec 2014 00:00:00 +00001662http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20141212-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps84.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b04tlys105/12/2014What do you really think of Radios 4 and 5 and their extra bits? The BBC Trust wants listeners' input for a major review it's conducting. But will your views change anything? Trustee Elan Closs Stephens tells Roger Bolton why reviews like this matter.
Radio 4's World War 1 drama Home Front is set to run for four years and a total of approximately 600 episodes. Roger goes on a behind-the-scenes tour of the epic production and puts listeners' questions talks to the series editor Jessica Droomgoole and producer Lucy Collingwood.
Jarvis Cocker took the Radio 4 audience back to primary school with his Archive on 4 on the well-loved programme "Singing Together". It was a weekly broadcast that started in 1939 and quickly became a treasured musical memory. But most of the broadcasts have been lost. We hear from Feedback listener Christopher Goodman who has succeeded where the BBC failed - in saving a little bit of our musical heritage for posterity.
And Archers Addicts question the point of a radio drama where the actors' voices are far too similar.
Produced by Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Elan Closs Stephens on why listeners' views matter, plus behind-the-scenes of Home Front.What do you really think of Radios 4 and 5 and their extra bits? The BBC Trust wants listeners' input for a major review it's conducting. But will your views change anything? Trustee Elan Closs Stephens tells Roger Bolton why reviews like this matter.
Radio 4's World War 1 drama Home Front is set to run for four years and a total of approximately 600 episodes. Roger goes on a behind-the-scenes tour of the epic production and puts listeners' questions talks to the series editor Jessica Droomgoole and producer Lucy Collingwood.
Jarvis Cocker took the Radio 4 audience back to primary school with his Archive on 4 on the well-loved programme "Singing Together". It was a weekly broadcast that started in 1939 and quickly became a treasured musical memory. But most of the broadcasts have been lost. We hear from Feedback listener Christopher Goodman who has succeeded where the BBC failed - in saving a little bit of our musical heritage for posterity.
And Archers Addicts question the point of a radio drama where the actors' voices are far too similar.
Produced by Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 05 Dec 2014 00:00:00 +00001662http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20141207-2030.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps86.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b04t6t6228/11/2014The BBC World Service is now funded by the licence fee which means the UK public is now paying for a service that many rarely use. Roger Bolton talks to the service's outgoing director, Peter Horrocks, about the challenges facing his successor.
Radio 4's PM programme continues to keep its audience up to date with Michael Buerk's progress on I'm a Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here. Many listeners love these light-hearted jungle moments; many others feel they have no place in a serious news programme. PM's editor Joanna Carr defends the programme's character and explains why the esteemed presenter of the Moral Maze is fair game for a bit of leg-pulling.
As part of Listeners' Week, Radio 4's In Our Time asked for suggestions for the topic of this week's programme. Roy Bailey and Lauren Hall's idea of Franz Kafka's The Trial was chosen from over 900 entries. They give their verdict on the programme, and Melvyn Bragg and his producer Tom Morris talk to Roger about what made Roy and Lauren's Kafkaesque proposal stand out.
Produced by Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.PM's editor defends Buerk updates. And how funding changes may affect the World Service.The BBC World Service is now funded by the licence fee which means the UK public is now paying for a service that many rarely use. Roger Bolton talks to the service's outgoing director, Peter Horrocks, about the challenges facing his successor.
Radio 4's PM programme continues to keep its audience up to date with Michael Buerk's progress on I'm a Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here. Many listeners love these light-hearted jungle moments; many others feel they have no place in a serious news programme. PM's editor Joanna Carr defends the programme's character and explains why the esteemed presenter of the Moral Maze is fair game for a bit of leg-pulling.
As part of Listeners' Week, Radio 4's In Our Time asked for suggestions for the topic of this week's programme. Roy Bailey and Lauren Hall's idea of Franz Kafka's The Trial was chosen from over 900 entries. They give their verdict on the programme, and Melvyn Bragg and his producer Tom Morris talk to Roger about what made Roy and Lauren's Kafkaesque proposal stand out.
Produced by Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 30 Nov 2014 00:00:00 +00001657http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20141128-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps89.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b04pvp8321/11/2014Since August, listeners to Radio 4's You and Yours have had their daily diet of consumer and social affairs cut by 12 minutes - in the first place to make way for the opening salvoes of Radio 4's 600-part World War 1 drama Home Front. Since then a number of mixed programmes have occupied the slot - with mixed responses from Feedback listeners. Are these bite-size portions the future of radio? The Commissioning Editor, Mohit Bakaya, explains his thinking for the future of the slot.
How does the BBC gauge the views of the silent majority who never make direct contact with the BBC or Feedback? Elizabeth Lane, Research Manager for Radio 4 and 4 Extra, has the answers.
As he grows a beard and takes on the bushtucker trial, is Michael Buerk living up to his surname down under? And do his reality TV antics really deserve a nightly slot on Radio 4?
Catch-up radio on the BBC's TV iPlayer becomes even harder to access for some listeners. First it was lost from smart televisions and now it's no longer available on TV set top boxes. So what's going on - and when will the service return to normal?
And comedian Jake Yapp gives us his version of Feedback in 60 seconds.
Produced by Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4
Kashmiri novelist Mirza Waheed talks to Mariella Frostrup about his new novel The Book of Gold Leaves which is a love story set against the backdrop of war.Will You and Yours return to its full length? And Feedback in 60 seconds.Since August, listeners to Radio 4's You and Yours have had their daily diet of consumer and social affairs cut by 12 minutes - in the first place to make way for the opening salvoes of Radio 4's 600-part World War 1 drama Home Front. Since then a number of mixed programmes have occupied the slot - with mixed responses from Feedback listeners. Are these bite-size portions the future of radio? The Commissioning Editor, Mohit Bakaya, explains his thinking for the future of the slot.
How does the BBC gauge the views of the silent majority who never make direct contact with the BBC or Feedback? Elizabeth Lane, Research Manager for Radio 4 and 4 Extra, has the answers.
As he grows a beard and takes on the bushtucker trial, is Michael Buerk living up to his surname down under? And do his reality TV antics really deserve a nightly slot on Radio 4?
Catch-up radio on the BBC's TV iPlayer becomes even harder to access for some listeners. First it was lost from smart televisions and now it's no longer available on TV set top boxes. So what's going on - and when will the service return to normal?
And comedian Jake Yapp gives us his version of Feedback in 60 seconds.
Produced by Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4
Kashmiri novelist Mirza Waheed talks to Mariella Frostrup about his new novel The Book of Gold Leaves which is a love story set against the backdrop of war.Sun, 23 Nov 2014 00:00:00 +00001655http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20141121-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps8d.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b04pcd5114/11/2014BBC Radio 1 Newsbeat has been found in breach of both Ofcom and BBC Editorial Guidelines for its broadcast of an interview with a member of ISIS. The item was considered inappropriate under BBC standards for Impartiality and Harm and Offence. Richard Ayre, the Chairman of the BBC Trust's Editorial Standards Committee, explains the ruling.
Radio 1's iPlayer video channel launched this week. It's the station's latest effort to engage with the smartphone generation. The BBC's Head of Visual Radio gives his vision for the future of Radio 1.
Radio 4 is also trying a bit of radio visualisation with a number of short-form animations to complement its History of Ideas series. A Feedback listeners' panel gives its verdict.
The former Home Secretary David Blunkett was on World at One this week - not to discuss any great affairs of state, but to give his thoughts on The Archers. Though many Feedback listeners share his concerns at the soap's current direction, others said that a serious news programme was not the place to cover such trivialities.
And Feedback listener Tony Harwood, gives a behind the scenes account of his time as a BBC page boy in the 1950s when one of many perks was the chance to watch live recordings of Hancock's Half Hour.
Produced by Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Should BBC Radio be visualised? Plus how Radio 1's Newsbeat breached editorial guidelines.BBC Radio 1 Newsbeat has been found in breach of both Ofcom and BBC Editorial Guidelines for its broadcast of an interview with a member of ISIS. The item was considered inappropriate under BBC standards for Impartiality and Harm and Offence. Richard Ayre, the Chairman of the BBC Trust's Editorial Standards Committee, explains the ruling.
Radio 1's iPlayer video channel launched this week. It's the station's latest effort to engage with the smartphone generation. The BBC's Head of Visual Radio gives his vision for the future of Radio 1.
Radio 4 is also trying a bit of radio visualisation with a number of short-form animations to complement its History of Ideas series. A Feedback listeners' panel gives its verdict.
The former Home Secretary David Blunkett was on World at One this week - not to discuss any great affairs of state, but to give his thoughts on The Archers. Though many Feedback listeners share his concerns at the soap's current direction, others said that a serious news programme was not the place to cover such trivialities.
And Feedback listener Tony Harwood, gives a behind the scenes account of his time as a BBC page boy in the 1950s when one of many perks was the chance to watch live recordings of Hancock's Half Hour.
Produced by Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 16 Nov 2014 00:00:00 +00001659http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20141114-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps8h.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b04p204g07/11/2014Dramatic storylines and racy relationships are continuing to cause a stir among Archers fans. Now the actor who plays the sausage king Tom Archer has been deposed, some listeners are threatening to switch off altogether.
There were 103 episodes of Hancock's Half Hour recorded in the 1950s. However, 20 episodes are missing from the BBC archives. Now, five of them have been brought back to life in new recordings of the original scripts. Giving a voice to the many voices of Kenneth Williams is actor Robin Sebastian. But which of all Williams's classic characters is his favourite? And what is it about this comedy that makes audiences still laugh sixty years on?
And is the British coverage of German history too focused on conflict? One programme setting out to change this is Neil McGregor's 30 part series 'Germany: Memories of a Nation'. It's been well received by most listeners though some feel repeating it three times a day was a bit much. Commissioning Editor Jane Ellison and the programme's producer Paul Kobrak discuss how and why the series was made.
Produced by Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Rediscovering Hancock's Half Hour. And why some Archers addicts say they will switch off.Dramatic storylines and racy relationships are continuing to cause a stir among Archers fans. Now the actor who plays the sausage king Tom Archer has been deposed, some listeners are threatening to switch off altogether.
There were 103 episodes of Hancock's Half Hour recorded in the 1950s. However, 20 episodes are missing from the BBC archives. Now, five of them have been brought back to life in new recordings of the original scripts. Giving a voice to the many voices of Kenneth Williams is actor Robin Sebastian. But which of all Williams's classic characters is his favourite? And what is it about this comedy that makes audiences still laugh sixty years on?
And is the British coverage of German history too focused on conflict? One programme setting out to change this is Neil McGregor's 30 part series 'Germany: Memories of a Nation'. It's been well received by most listeners though some feel repeating it three times a day was a bit much. Commissioning Editor Jane Ellison and the programme's producer Paul Kobrak discuss how and why the series was made.
Produced by Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 09 Nov 2014 00:00:00 +00001662http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20141107-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps8k.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b04nhytx31/10/2014Russell Brand was invited onto Radio 4's Start the Week to join a discussion on Revolution. But was he out of place on the panel of experts? Some listeners saw it as little more than blatant promotion of his latest book. The programme's editor, Rebecca Stratford, explains the thinking behind her decision.
Surround sound has long been enhancing mainstream cinema, and it's now made an appearance in BBC radio drama. And you don't need a 5.1 surround sound speaker set to hear it. So how does it work? All is revealed in a behind the scenes laboratory at BBC Research and Development, where the authentic sounds of World War 1 are brought to life.
John Humphrys recently declared on Feedback that UKIP is Britain's fourth political party - leading listeners to wonder if the Green Party ranked anywhere in his poll. With the 2015 General Election around the corner, how does the BBC determine which parties appear in its political debates? Breaking down the stats and figures behind the selection process is the BBC's Chief Political Advisor, Ric Bailey.
And how did two Radio 4 programmes get repeated minutes after their original broadcast?
Produced by Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Russell Brand on Start the Week. And will surround sound transform radio drama?Russell Brand was invited onto Radio 4's Start the Week to join a discussion on Revolution. But was he out of place on the panel of experts? Some listeners saw it as little more than blatant promotion of his latest book. The programme's editor, Rebecca Stratford, explains the thinking behind her decision.
Surround sound has long been enhancing mainstream cinema, and it's now made an appearance in BBC radio drama. And you don't need a 5.1 surround sound speaker set to hear it. So how does it work? All is revealed in a behind the scenes laboratory at BBC Research and Development, where the authentic sounds of World War 1 are brought to life.
John Humphrys recently declared on Feedback that UKIP is Britain's fourth political party - leading listeners to wonder if the Green Party ranked anywhere in his poll. With the 2015 General Election around the corner, how does the BBC determine which parties appear in its political debates? Breaking down the stats and figures behind the selection process is the BBC's Chief Political Advisor, Ric Bailey.
And how did two Radio 4 programmes get repeated minutes after their original broadcast?
Produced by Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 02 Nov 2014 00:00:00 +00001653http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20141031-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps8m.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b04mpr5y24/10/2014Lord Heseltine has been criticised for his use of the word 'handicapped' on Radio 4's Any Questions. But should Jonathan Dimbleby or the programme's producers have stepped in to correct him? Radio 4's Peter White, who's also the BBC's Disability Affairs Correspondent, gives his take on the evolution of terminology -and the minefield of words to avoid.
Moral Maze presenter Michael Buerk also came under fire this week for his choice of words in a live on-air trail. He was promoting this week's debate on whether the footballer and convicted rapist Ched Evans should be allowed to return to his footballing career. But the trail led many to accuse the presenter of victim blaming.
And will there ever be a perfect political interview to please all listeners? This week the interviewing skills of Today presenters John Humphrys and Sarah Montague are called into question. But who is really at fault here - is it the combative approach of interviewers or the impenetrable defence of politicians?
The BBC wants to reflect the UK's ethnic diversity more accurately in both television and radio broadcasting. In order to widen their pool of expert contributors, the BBC Academy has launched a series of Black and Minority Ethnic Expert Voices Days. Two applicants who attended the event explain why they want to help change the look and sound of the BBC.
And get your headphones at the ready for a glimpse into the world of surround sound and binaural audio.
Produced by Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Moral Maze's controversial trail and how could BAME experts change the sound of BBC radio.Lord Heseltine has been criticised for his use of the word 'handicapped' on Radio 4's Any Questions. But should Jonathan Dimbleby or the programme's producers have stepped in to correct him? Radio 4's Peter White, who's also the BBC's Disability Affairs Correspondent, gives his take on the evolution of terminology -and the minefield of words to avoid.
Moral Maze presenter Michael Buerk also came under fire this week for his choice of words in a live on-air trail. He was promoting this week's debate on whether the footballer and convicted rapist Ched Evans should be allowed to return to his footballing career. But the trail led many to accuse the presenter of victim blaming.
And will there ever be a perfect political interview to please all listeners? This week the interviewing skills of Today presenters John Humphrys and Sarah Montague are called into question. But who is really at fault here - is it the combative approach of interviewers or the impenetrable defence of politicians?
The BBC wants to reflect the UK's ethnic diversity more accurately in both television and radio broadcasting. In order to widen their pool of expert contributors, the BBC Academy has launched a series of Black and Minority Ethnic Expert Voices Days. Two applicants who attended the event explain why they want to help change the look and sound of the BBC.
And get your headphones at the ready for a glimpse into the world of surround sound and binaural audio.
Produced by Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 26 Oct 2014 01:00:00 +01001663http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20141024-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps8q.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b04m3jd217/10/2014Have political interviews become a monotonous drone on your radio? Newsnight Editor Ian Katz believes most are simply "boring-snoring". 5 live Breakfast presenter Nicky Campbell and Today's John Humphrys fought their corner in a Masterclass at this year's Radio Festival in Salford on "The Art of the Political Interview." Three Feedback listeners also went along and put their questions to Radio 4's Grand Inquisitor.
Roger Bolton also talks to Desert Island Discs' Kirsty Young about how she gets her castaways to open up. She also reveals which castaway made her go weak at the knees.
The Head Down Generation, the BBC Trust and commercial rivals are just some of concerns that the Controller of Radio 1 and 1Xtra, Ben Cooper, has to consider. But what seven things are keeping him awake at night? He responds to the ever-present question of Radio 1's average audience age and brings new meaning to the words pipe and platform.
Produced by Will Yates
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.How best to pin down politicians? And what worries BBC Radio 1 controller Ben Cooper?Have political interviews become a monotonous drone on your radio? Newsnight Editor Ian Katz believes most are simply "boring-snoring". 5 live Breakfast presenter Nicky Campbell and Today's John Humphrys fought their corner in a Masterclass at this year's Radio Festival in Salford on "The Art of the Political Interview." Three Feedback listeners also went along and put their questions to Radio 4's Grand Inquisitor.
Roger Bolton also talks to Desert Island Discs' Kirsty Young about how she gets her castaways to open up. She also reveals which castaway made her go weak at the knees.
The Head Down Generation, the BBC Trust and commercial rivals are just some of concerns that the Controller of Radio 1 and 1Xtra, Ben Cooper, has to consider. But what seven things are keeping him awake at night? He responds to the ever-present question of Radio 1's average audience age and brings new meaning to the words pipe and platform.
Produced by Will Yates
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 19 Oct 2014 01:00:00 +01001649http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20141017-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps8t.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b04l3nnr10/10/2014Good news. You now have 30 day to catch up on radio programmes using iPlayer. Andrew Scott, the General Manager of radio and music for BBC Future Media joins Roger Bolton to discuss the changes.
Musician, writer, broadcaster - Jarvis Cocker can seemingly turn his hand to anything. But can he combine his intimate late-night delivery of Radio 4 programme Wireless Nights with the full force of the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra? Kate Taylor takes us behind the scenes at the rehearsal to meet Jarvis along with the Wireless Nights producer Laurence Grissell and the General Manager of the BBC Philharmonic, Simon Webb.
The battle for the 12 o'clock slot on Radio 4 continues. You and Yours listeners are still reeling from losing a quarter of the consumer affairs programme each day to make space for Home Front, Radio 4's landmark 500-part drama about the First World War. But while Home Front is taking a break there's a new series called '21st Century Mythologies' in its place. Every day Peter Conrad focuses on a different example of popular culture - including Nando's, Apple computers and the Kardashians - echoing the French semiotician Roland Barthes' Mythologies 60 years earlier. Clever cultural commentary? Some listeners are not convinced.
And listeners react to an item on Today in which Sarah Montagu interviewed a woman who had married herself.
Produced by Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.More time to catch up on iPlayer, and Jarvis Cocker brings classical music to Radio 4.Good news. You now have 30 day to catch up on radio programmes using iPlayer. Andrew Scott, the General Manager of radio and music for BBC Future Media joins Roger Bolton to discuss the changes.
Musician, writer, broadcaster - Jarvis Cocker can seemingly turn his hand to anything. But can he combine his intimate late-night delivery of Radio 4 programme Wireless Nights with the full force of the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra? Kate Taylor takes us behind the scenes at the rehearsal to meet Jarvis along with the Wireless Nights producer Laurence Grissell and the General Manager of the BBC Philharmonic, Simon Webb.
The battle for the 12 o'clock slot on Radio 4 continues. You and Yours listeners are still reeling from losing a quarter of the consumer affairs programme each day to make space for Home Front, Radio 4's landmark 500-part drama about the First World War. But while Home Front is taking a break there's a new series called '21st Century Mythologies' in its place. Every day Peter Conrad focuses on a different example of popular culture - including Nando's, Apple computers and the Kardashians - echoing the French semiotician Roland Barthes' Mythologies 60 years earlier. Clever cultural commentary? Some listeners are not convinced.
And listeners react to an item on Today in which Sarah Montagu interviewed a woman who had married herself.
Produced by Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 12 Oct 2014 01:00:00 +01001655http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20141010-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps8x.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b04kfk2403/10/2014Has a summer of tough foreign news had you switching off the radio? The Editor of the Today programme, Jamie Angus, talks to Roger Bolton about his plans to bring a greater range of approaches to telling international stories. The aim is to give audiences a broader view of life in countries which are more often in the news for conflict or disaster - but is it sugar-coating the news for listeners?
Mud-slinging or mediation? What's the best way to debate? Many Feedback listeners tell us they want more measured, discursive debate - especially on important issues. Matthew Taylor, who's used to holding his own on the Moral Maze, has been presenting Agree to Differ in which he asks contributors to seek common ground in their argument. He debates the subject with the boss of Any Questions, Clare McGinn.
And why is You and Yours being cut short for a World War I drama? The 500-part, four-year-long serial Home Front is knocking twelve minutes off the consumer affairs programme each day. Will You and Yours ever gets its missing minutes back? Roger asks Radio 4's Head of Planning and Scheduling, Tony Pilgrim.
Produced by Will Yates.
A Whistledown production for Radio 4.The Today editor on reporting tough foreign news, and debate tips from Matthew Taylor.Has a summer of tough foreign news had you switching off the radio? The Editor of the Today programme, Jamie Angus, talks to Roger Bolton about his plans to bring a greater range of approaches to telling international stories. The aim is to give audiences a broader view of life in countries which are more often in the news for conflict or disaster - but is it sugar-coating the news for listeners?
Mud-slinging or mediation? What's the best way to debate? Many Feedback listeners tell us they want more measured, discursive debate - especially on important issues. Matthew Taylor, who's used to holding his own on the Moral Maze, has been presenting Agree to Differ in which he asks contributors to seek common ground in their argument. He debates the subject with the boss of Any Questions, Clare McGinn.
And why is You and Yours being cut short for a World War I drama? The 500-part, four-year-long serial Home Front is knocking twelve minutes off the consumer affairs programme each day. Will You and Yours ever gets its missing minutes back? Roger asks Radio 4's Head of Planning and Scheduling, Tony Pilgrim.
Produced by Will Yates.
A Whistledown production for Radio 4.Sun, 05 Oct 2014 01:00:00 +01001662http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20141003-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps8z.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b04jmcr908/08/2014On 4th August 1914 Britain entered World War I. The BBC marked the date with a variety of programmes exploring the history of the conflict and by broadcasting commemorative ceremonies. Many listeners were moved by the coverage, others questioned whether it was too jingoistic, while some wonder whether the level of analysis is sustainable for the next four years.
Also this week, Roger Bolton meets his teenage crush - Carol Tregorran from The Archers, played by film star Eleanor Bron. Carol hasn't been heard in The Archers for 34 years, but how long will she be staying this time?
And Roger is in Glasgow meeting journalists at the BBC headquarters at Pacific Quay on the day of the first televised debate of the Scottish Referendum campaign. With just six weeks to go before the people of Scotland cast their vote, Roger asks Scotland Correspondent Colin Blane and Special Correspondent Allan Little whether they can give their listeners inside and outside of Scotland the information they want and need. He also meets Louise White, presenter of BBC Radio Scotland's phone-in programme Morning Call, and BBC Scotland political editor Brian Taylor who deals with allegations of bias from both sides.
Marcus Brigstocke has dealt with plenty of allegations of bias for his brand of close-to-the-bone political satire. His Radio 4 comedy series The Brig Society returned this week and already listeners are divided over whether his analysis of the European Union was refreshingly witty or wilfully one-sided. Which side are you on?
Producer: Lizz Pearson
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.World War I commemorations, The Archers' Carol Tregorran and the Scottish Referendum.On 4th August 1914 Britain entered World War I. The BBC marked the date with a variety of programmes exploring the history of the conflict and by broadcasting commemorative ceremonies. Many listeners were moved by the coverage, others questioned whether it was too jingoistic, while some wonder whether the level of analysis is sustainable for the next four years.
Also this week, Roger Bolton meets his teenage crush - Carol Tregorran from The Archers, played by film star Eleanor Bron. Carol hasn't been heard in The Archers for 34 years, but how long will she be staying this time?
And Roger is in Glasgow meeting journalists at the BBC headquarters at Pacific Quay on the day of the first televised debate of the Scottish Referendum campaign. With just six weeks to go before the people of Scotland cast their vote, Roger asks Scotland Correspondent Colin Blane and Special Correspondent Allan Little whether they can give their listeners inside and outside of Scotland the information they want and need. He also meets Louise White, presenter of BBC Radio Scotland's phone-in programme Morning Call, and BBC Scotland political editor Brian Taylor who deals with allegations of bias from both sides.
Marcus Brigstocke has dealt with plenty of allegations of bias for his brand of close-to-the-bone political satire. His Radio 4 comedy series The Brig Society returned this week and already listeners are divided over whether his analysis of the European Union was refreshingly witty or wilfully one-sided. Which side are you on?
Producer: Lizz Pearson
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 10 Aug 2014 01:00:00 +01001661http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20140808-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps91.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b04cfzxc01/08/2014Listeners' views on the BBC's coverage of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict continue to dominate our inbox. There are allegations of bias on both sides - the BBC coverage is accused of being too pro-Palestinian and too pro-Israeli. But how easy is it to accurately report the conflict on the ground from within Gaza? Roger Bolton speaks to the BBC's chief international correspondent Lyse Doucet.
Also this week, should history stay in the past? John Humphrys and Melvyn Bragg have gone head-to-head over the use of the present tense to describe historical events. Matthew Parris, who presents Radio 4's long-running biographical series Great Lives, was among the first to criticise this seemingly modern fad. But is it actually a new thing? And can it be an effective tool for bringing the past to life? Matthew gives his view.
And Roger joins the gardeners of Cumbria on board the M V Teal on Windermere for a special recording of Gardeners' Question Time. The chairman, Eric Robson, is celebrating 20 years of presiding over the gardening queries of the nation, but what's in his garden? And how do the panel of Bob Flowerdew, Pippa Greenwood, and Bunny Guinness prepare for any question that the audience might throw at them? Find out how an audience of 150 gardeners, perhaps more used to being close to the earth, take to the water. You can hear the special edition of Gardeners' Question Time on Friday 8th August at 15.00 and repeated on Sunday 10th August at 14.00 on BBC Radio 4.
Finally, are Sandi Toksvig and her News Quiz panel taking up raving? The problems with the BBC iPlayer continue.
Producer: Katherine Godfrey.
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Lyse Doucet on reporting from Gaza. And we question the Gardeners' Question Time team.Listeners' views on the BBC's coverage of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict continue to dominate our inbox. There are allegations of bias on both sides - the BBC coverage is accused of being too pro-Palestinian and too pro-Israeli. But how easy is it to accurately report the conflict on the ground from within Gaza? Roger Bolton speaks to the BBC's chief international correspondent Lyse Doucet.
Also this week, should history stay in the past? John Humphrys and Melvyn Bragg have gone head-to-head over the use of the present tense to describe historical events. Matthew Parris, who presents Radio 4's long-running biographical series Great Lives, was among the first to criticise this seemingly modern fad. But is it actually a new thing? And can it be an effective tool for bringing the past to life? Matthew gives his view.
And Roger joins the gardeners of Cumbria on board the M V Teal on Windermere for a special recording of Gardeners' Question Time. The chairman, Eric Robson, is celebrating 20 years of presiding over the gardening queries of the nation, but what's in his garden? And how do the panel of Bob Flowerdew, Pippa Greenwood, and Bunny Guinness prepare for any question that the audience might throw at them? Find out how an audience of 150 gardeners, perhaps more used to being close to the earth, take to the water. You can hear the special edition of Gardeners' Question Time on Friday 8th August at 15.00 and repeated on Sunday 10th August at 14.00 on BBC Radio 4.
Finally, are Sandi Toksvig and her News Quiz panel taking up raving? The problems with the BBC iPlayer continue.
Producer: Katherine Godfrey.
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 03 Aug 2014 01:00:00 +01001654http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20140801-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps94.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b04bs0ls25/07/2014Last weekend many radio listeners were looking forward to catching up on all the programmes they'd missed during the week using the BBC iPlayer. But they found programmes were mysteriously unavailable. In some cases they remained so until Monday afternoon. What went wrong and should the BBC have done more to communicate about the problem? Roger Bolton speaks to the BBC's Mark Friend, the Controller for Radio and Music Multiplatform.
The panellists on this week's Moral Maze had no problems communicating - in fact, many listeners felt they came across all too loud and clear. Feedback received complaints about the overly combative atmosphere during a debate on 'Just War and Gaza'. Roger asks the programme's producer Phil Pegum whether the moral complexities of the argument were drowned out by what one listener described as "childish squabbling".
What makes a great radio double-act? Feedback visits the Test Match Special commentary box to find out what makes the apparently fractious duo of Geoffrey Boycott and Jonathan Agnew tick.
The BBC published its annual report this week which showed that viewing and listening figures were dropping, particularly among young people. And accusations of South-East bias reared their head again, which comes as no surprise to some of our listeners.
Also - there's the Twitter phenomenon started by a Feedback listener - #EatyTalky.
Producer: Will Yates.
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.What happened to BBC iPlayer? And was Moral Maze just a slanging match?Last weekend many radio listeners were looking forward to catching up on all the programmes they'd missed during the week using the BBC iPlayer. But they found programmes were mysteriously unavailable. In some cases they remained so until Monday afternoon. What went wrong and should the BBC have done more to communicate about the problem? Roger Bolton speaks to the BBC's Mark Friend, the Controller for Radio and Music Multiplatform.
The panellists on this week's Moral Maze had no problems communicating - in fact, many listeners felt they came across all too loud and clear. Feedback received complaints about the overly combative atmosphere during a debate on 'Just War and Gaza'. Roger asks the programme's producer Phil Pegum whether the moral complexities of the argument were drowned out by what one listener described as "childish squabbling".
What makes a great radio double-act? Feedback visits the Test Match Special commentary box to find out what makes the apparently fractious duo of Geoffrey Boycott and Jonathan Agnew tick.
The BBC published its annual report this week which showed that viewing and listening figures were dropping, particularly among young people. And accusations of South-East bias reared their head again, which comes as no surprise to some of our listeners.
Also - there's the Twitter phenomenon started by a Feedback listener - #EatyTalky.
Producer: Will Yates.
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 27 Jul 2014 01:00:00 +01001664http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20140725-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps96.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b04b2wzz18/07/2014On Thursday, the BBC announced 415 jobs losses from its news department. The job cuts are to save money after the last licence fee agreement left the BBC needing to find £800 million in efficiency savings. But what do the cuts mean for radio news? Roger Bolton asks the BBC's Director of News, James Harding.
And amid accusations of bias on both sides, Roger speaks to the World News Editor, Andrew Roy, about whether the BBC is sufficiently impartial in its coverage of the Israel-Gaza conflict.
Also this week, hard hitting journalism isn't only for Radio 4. As Radio 1 celebrates 40 years of documentary-making and its Newsbeat programme, we'll be asking some of its young listeners for their views on its documentaries. The Radio 1 and 1Xtra Stories are an hour long and cover anything from domestic violence and teacher-pupil relationships to the lifestyles of the rich and famous. But are they too long for the audience? Is there too much music? We put those questions to Radio 1 Commissioning Editor Piers Bradford and Chloe Straw, an Executive Producer from the independent production company Somethin' Else.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Is BBC coverage of the Israel-Gaza conflict biased? And what do news cuts mean for radio?On Thursday, the BBC announced 415 jobs losses from its news department. The job cuts are to save money after the last licence fee agreement left the BBC needing to find £800 million in efficiency savings. But what do the cuts mean for radio news? Roger Bolton asks the BBC's Director of News, James Harding.
And amid accusations of bias on both sides, Roger speaks to the World News Editor, Andrew Roy, about whether the BBC is sufficiently impartial in its coverage of the Israel-Gaza conflict.
Also this week, hard hitting journalism isn't only for Radio 4. As Radio 1 celebrates 40 years of documentary-making and its Newsbeat programme, we'll be asking some of its young listeners for their views on its documentaries. The Radio 1 and 1Xtra Stories are an hour long and cover anything from domestic violence and teacher-pupil relationships to the lifestyles of the rich and famous. But are they too long for the audience? Is there too much music? We put those questions to Radio 1 Commissioning Editor Piers Bradford and Chloe Straw, an Executive Producer from the independent production company Somethin' Else.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 20 Jul 2014 01:00:00 +01001645http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20140718-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps99.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b0499sp111/07/2014The editor of The World at One answers listeners' complaints about his programme's interview with the actor Nigel Havers, there's Radio 4's new comedy series about cancer survivors, and the dos and don'ts of eating on the radio.
Feedback received many emails this week from listeners who question The World at One's decision to interview actor Nigel Havers about the integrity of his aunt Baroness Butler Sloss and her appointment to lead a government inquiry into child sex abuse. Was it a case of celebrity leakage? The programme's editor Nick Sutton answers his critics.
Also, should we be laughing at cancer? Some listeners are turned off by the new radio comedy Bad Salsa which looks at dancing and cancer survivors. Roger discusses the thinking behind the programme with the writer Kay Stonham and producer Alison Vernon-Smith.
And we consider the art and perils of eating on the radio with Woman's Hour presenter Dame Jenni Murray and the broadcaster Simon Parkes.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Nigel Havers on WATO, comedy and cancer and eating on the radio.The editor of The World at One answers listeners' complaints about his programme's interview with the actor Nigel Havers, there's Radio 4's new comedy series about cancer survivors, and the dos and don'ts of eating on the radio.
Feedback received many emails this week from listeners who question The World at One's decision to interview actor Nigel Havers about the integrity of his aunt Baroness Butler Sloss and her appointment to lead a government inquiry into child sex abuse. Was it a case of celebrity leakage? The programme's editor Nick Sutton answers his critics.
Also, should we be laughing at cancer? Some listeners are turned off by the new radio comedy Bad Salsa which looks at dancing and cancer survivors. Roger discusses the thinking behind the programme with the writer Kay Stonham and producer Alison Vernon-Smith.
And we consider the art and perils of eating on the radio with Woman's Hour presenter Dame Jenni Murray and the broadcaster Simon Parkes.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 13 Jul 2014 01:00:00 +01001659http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20140711-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps9d.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b04c03vd04/07/2014This week on Feedback, Roger Bolton discusses accusations of false balance in the BBC's climate change reporting with BBC Trustee Alison Hastings.
Also in the programme, if the BBC director general Tony Hall has made a commitment to more female presenters on radio; two of 5Live's top women - Victoria Derbyshire and Sheila Fogarty - are leaving and are being replaced by men. Is Radio Bloke making a comeback?
Plus I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue and the art of innuendo and why Any Questions presenter Jonathan Dimbleby sent a profusely apologetic tweet to MP Chris Bryant.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4
4.Debating climate change, Any Questions's slip up and is 5Live's Radio Bloke back?This week on Feedback, Roger Bolton discusses accusations of false balance in the BBC's climate change reporting with BBC Trustee Alison Hastings.
Also in the programme, if the BBC director general Tony Hall has made a commitment to more female presenters on radio; two of 5Live's top women - Victoria Derbyshire and Sheila Fogarty - are leaving and are being replaced by men. Is Radio Bloke making a comeback?
Plus I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue and the art of innuendo and why Any Questions presenter Jonathan Dimbleby sent a profusely apologetic tweet to MP Chris Bryant.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4
4.Fri, 04 Jul 2014 01:00:00 +01001663http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20140704-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps9g.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b04807j627/06/2014Lots of emails this week from listeners angered by BBC radio's lack of coverage of what was claimed to be a 50,000-strong demonstration against the coalition's cuts - even though it started just outside Broadcasting House. Was it, you wondered, evidence that the corporation's news coverage isn't as impartial as it claims?
Also under discussion - the "N word". Is it ever acceptable to use it on the air? Roger talks to the producer of Radio 4's Archive on 4 documentary A History of the N Word and Radio 4's Editor of editorial standards, Roger Mahony.
Elsewhere in the programme, the truth behind the story that Jack Dee threatened to resign from Radio 4's I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue; the release of a report on the quality and impartiality of BBC coverage of rural affairs; and the shipping forecast - beloved of Radio 4 listeners, but is it still used by those in peril on the sea?
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Why did BBC Radio ignore a 50,000-strong protest, and should the 'N-word' be banned?Lots of emails this week from listeners angered by BBC radio's lack of coverage of what was claimed to be a 50,000-strong demonstration against the coalition's cuts - even though it started just outside Broadcasting House. Was it, you wondered, evidence that the corporation's news coverage isn't as impartial as it claims?
Also under discussion - the "N word". Is it ever acceptable to use it on the air? Roger talks to the producer of Radio 4's Archive on 4 documentary A History of the N Word and Radio 4's Editor of editorial standards, Roger Mahony.
Elsewhere in the programme, the truth behind the story that Jack Dee threatened to resign from Radio 4's I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue; the release of a report on the quality and impartiality of BBC coverage of rural affairs; and the shipping forecast - beloved of Radio 4 listeners, but is it still used by those in peril on the sea?
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 29 Jun 2014 01:00:00 +01001660http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20140627-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps9j.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b047cb0720/06/2014Fans of Radio 2's Alex Lester, the self-professed Dark Lord, are in open revolt at the news that he's being moved from his midweek early morning slot to the weekend. They're also angry that his old slot is to be filled with repeats. In the first programme of the new series, Roger Bolton talks to BBC Radio 2 Controller Bob Shennan about his decision to reduce the station's live broadcasting through the night.
Also, is the BBC responsible for some of UKIP's recent successes by giving the party too much coverage? Ric Bailey, the BBC's Chief Political Adviser, takes us through how the corporation aims to ensure impartiality in its political reporting.
Roger will also be investigating the mysterious case of Radio 4's missing shipping forecast and why the Radio iPlayer catch-up service has been cut from smart TVs. And we'll be going behind-the-scenes to find out about "lost" BBC archive programmes sent in by members of the public.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Radio 2 Controller Bob Shennan talks cutbacks. And was the UKIP coverage all too much?Fans of Radio 2's Alex Lester, the self-professed Dark Lord, are in open revolt at the news that he's being moved from his midweek early morning slot to the weekend. They're also angry that his old slot is to be filled with repeats. In the first programme of the new series, Roger Bolton talks to BBC Radio 2 Controller Bob Shennan about his decision to reduce the station's live broadcasting through the night.
Also, is the BBC responsible for some of UKIP's recent successes by giving the party too much coverage? Ric Bailey, the BBC's Chief Political Adviser, takes us through how the corporation aims to ensure impartiality in its political reporting.
Roger will also be investigating the mysterious case of Radio 4's missing shipping forecast and why the Radio iPlayer catch-up service has been cut from smart TVs. And we'll be going behind-the-scenes to find out about "lost" BBC archive programmes sent in by members of the public.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 22 Jun 2014 01:00:00 +01001656http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20140620-1704.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps9n.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b046p07z25/04/2014With The Archers taking a dramatic turn this week (switch off if you don't want to hear a spoiler before the omnibus on Sunday!), listeners question its recently appointed editor, Sean O'Connor, about whether he's making their favourite programme too tabloid. Are some characters undergoing personality transplants? And why, on Good Friday, were some Archers listeners left upset by what they felt was an irreverent approach to the Passion story?
Also this week, we hear from just some of the many listeners who felt that BBC Radio news went over the top with the story that Manchester United manager David Moyes' had been sacked. Football fans and phobics alike want to know why it was placed at the top of bulletins and news programmes throughout the day, rather than in the sports bulletin.
And Roger Bolton pays a visit to the nerve centre of BBC Radio 4 Extra to find out how they resurrect the radio legends of the past. The predominantly archive station is in its second decade, so are there still treasures to be found in the BBC archives? And is some comedy from a different era too offensive to be broadcast?
It's our last programme of this series but please keep your comments and questions about BBC Radio coming in. We'll be back in the summer.
Producer: Lizz Pearson
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Your questions answered by The Archers editor. And did radio news go OTT on footie?With The Archers taking a dramatic turn this week (switch off if you don't want to hear a spoiler before the omnibus on Sunday!), listeners question its recently appointed editor, Sean O'Connor, about whether he's making their favourite programme too tabloid. Are some characters undergoing personality transplants? And why, on Good Friday, were some Archers listeners left upset by what they felt was an irreverent approach to the Passion story?
Also this week, we hear from just some of the many listeners who felt that BBC Radio news went over the top with the story that Manchester United manager David Moyes' had been sacked. Football fans and phobics alike want to know why it was placed at the top of bulletins and news programmes throughout the day, rather than in the sports bulletin.
And Roger Bolton pays a visit to the nerve centre of BBC Radio 4 Extra to find out how they resurrect the radio legends of the past. The predominantly archive station is in its second decade, so are there still treasures to be found in the BBC archives? And is some comedy from a different era too offensive to be broadcast?
It's our last programme of this series but please keep your comments and questions about BBC Radio coming in. We'll be back in the summer.
Producer: Lizz Pearson
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 25 Apr 2014 01:00:00 +01001649http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20140425-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps9q.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b0418x1218/04/2014It's the most popular programme on Radio 4 by far, the flagship Radio 4 news programme, which begins the day for more than seven million listeners. No programme attracts more correspondence from Feedback listeners than Today.
This week Feedback puts some of that correspondence to Jamie Angus, who's been Editor of the programme for almost nine months. In his first radio interview, Jamie deals with listener complaints including an interview in which presenter Evan Davis continually interrupted politician Iain Duncan Smith, a Today item with the victim of an acid attack, and the question of balance on climate change. He also sets out his vision for Today.
The BBC iPlayer App is a popular device for radio listeners wanting to 'tune in' on the move, via their tablets and phones. But recent changes to the way it works have left many Feedback listeners unhappy. One of them is Nick Gilbody. He took up Feedback's invitation to come to London and meet Roger Bolton, as well as the man responsible for making sure the app is coming up to scratch, Andrew Scott, General Manager of Radio - BBC Future Media. But does the encounter solve his problems, and leave him a satisfied Feedback customer?
We'll also be travelling to Emmanuel Church in Didsbury near Manchester, to meet the team who produce the world's longest-running daily non-news radio show. The Daily Service has brought Christian worship to BBC listeners since 1928. We hear from the singers, the presenter and producer who decide on the themes for worship, and the music at the programme's heart.
Producer: Lizz Pearson
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Today editor Jamie Angus, BBC iPlayer radio app issues and the Daily Service.It's the most popular programme on Radio 4 by far, the flagship Radio 4 news programme, which begins the day for more than seven million listeners. No programme attracts more correspondence from Feedback listeners than Today.
This week Feedback puts some of that correspondence to Jamie Angus, who's been Editor of the programme for almost nine months. In his first radio interview, Jamie deals with listener complaints including an interview in which presenter Evan Davis continually interrupted politician Iain Duncan Smith, a Today item with the victim of an acid attack, and the question of balance on climate change. He also sets out his vision for Today.
The BBC iPlayer App is a popular device for radio listeners wanting to 'tune in' on the move, via their tablets and phones. But recent changes to the way it works have left many Feedback listeners unhappy. One of them is Nick Gilbody. He took up Feedback's invitation to come to London and meet Roger Bolton, as well as the man responsible for making sure the app is coming up to scratch, Andrew Scott, General Manager of Radio - BBC Future Media. But does the encounter solve his problems, and leave him a satisfied Feedback customer?
We'll also be travelling to Emmanuel Church in Didsbury near Manchester, to meet the team who produce the world's longest-running daily non-news radio show. The Daily Service has brought Christian worship to BBC listeners since 1928. We hear from the singers, the presenter and producer who decide on the themes for worship, and the music at the programme's heart.
Producer: Lizz Pearson
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 18 Apr 2014 01:00:00 +01001664http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20140422-1038.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps9t.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b040lwrx11/04/2014Radio 4's forum for comments, queries, criticisms and congratulations.Radio 4's forum for comments, queries, criticisms and congratulations.Radio 4's forum for comments, queries, criticisms and congratulations.Fri, 11 Apr 2014 01:00:00 +01001663http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20140411-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02pps9y.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b0400qf104/04/2014In a dramatic episode of The Archers at the end of last week, Ruth Archer had a miscarriage and sought comfort from her mother Heather. The moment occurred in Friday's broadcast and was repeated during the omnibus on Sunday - Mothering Sunday. Many Feedback listeners felt the timing of the repeat was inappropriate. But others felt the storyline sensitively explored an issue that affects many women.
On Saturday, The Archers broke out of Ambridge when Lynda Snell was heard on the phone to Any Answers presenter Anita Anand and David Archer burst into Radio 4 continuity. They were just two of the characters that popped up in the Radio 4 schedule as part of Character Invasion. Other fictional interrupters included Big Bird on Tweet of the Day and Roy of the Rovers on Today. But for some listeners mixing fiction with Radio 4's factual output fell flat. We put listeners' comments to Jeremy Howe, Radio 4's Commissioning Editor for Drama.
We'll also be hearing listeners' reaction to a report published on Wednesday by the House of Commons Science and Technology committee. It criticises the BBC's coverage of the Climate Change debate for creating 'false balance' in some of its reports. These findings come as no surprise for some listeners.
Also this week, we try to find out why Radio 4 Long Wave has been disappearing at just after 10 o'clock every morning and returning seven hours later. The answer comes from Alan Boyle, who has the intriguing title of Head of Spectrum and Investigation for BBC Distribution.
And we hitchhike with director Dirk Maggs as we go behind the scenes at the live Radio 4 broadcast of The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy. On Saturday morning it came home to Radio 4, 36 years after the first series landed, with earth-shattering effect. We'll join the original cast of characters - Arthur Dent, Zaphod Beeblebrox, Ford Prefect, Trillian - and the new Voice of the Book, John Lloyd.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Ruth Archer's miscarriage, Radio 4 Long Wave drops off air and Hitchhiking with John LloydIn a dramatic episode of The Archers at the end of last week, Ruth Archer had a miscarriage and sought comfort from her mother Heather. The moment occurred in Friday's broadcast and was repeated during the omnibus on Sunday - Mothering Sunday. Many Feedback listeners felt the timing of the repeat was inappropriate. But others felt the storyline sensitively explored an issue that affects many women.
On Saturday, The Archers broke out of Ambridge when Lynda Snell was heard on the phone to Any Answers presenter Anita Anand and David Archer burst into Radio 4 continuity. They were just two of the characters that popped up in the Radio 4 schedule as part of Character Invasion. Other fictional interrupters included Big Bird on Tweet of the Day and Roy of the Rovers on Today. But for some listeners mixing fiction with Radio 4's factual output fell flat. We put listeners' comments to Jeremy Howe, Radio 4's Commissioning Editor for Drama.
We'll also be hearing listeners' reaction to a report published on Wednesday by the House of Commons Science and Technology committee. It criticises the BBC's coverage of the Climate Change debate for creating 'false balance' in some of its reports. These findings come as no surprise for some listeners.
Also this week, we try to find out why Radio 4 Long Wave has been disappearing at just after 10 o'clock every morning and returning seven hours later. The answer comes from Alan Boyle, who has the intriguing title of Head of Spectrum and Investigation for BBC Distribution.
And we hitchhike with director Dirk Maggs as we go behind the scenes at the live Radio 4 broadcast of The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy. On Saturday morning it came home to Radio 4, 36 years after the first series landed, with earth-shattering effect. We'll join the original cast of characters - Arthur Dent, Zaphod Beeblebrox, Ford Prefect, Trillian - and the new Voice of the Book, John Lloyd.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 04 Apr 2014 01:00:00 +01001662http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20140404-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsb4.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b03zdm6028/03/2014A Today interview is never an easy ride for politicians. But listeners tuning in this week felt Evan Davis's interview with the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Iain Duncan Smith, too things too far. We hear those views.
It's an altogether more civilised affair as Roger Bolton drops in on Radio 3's 'pop up' studio at the Royal Festival Hall in London's Southbank Centre. For the past fortnight, Radio 3 have broadcast their live programmes from a perspex box. Radio 3's editorial team, producers and presenters have been meeting audiences. We'll be speaking to In Tune presenter Sean Rafferty and some of his adoring public.
Radio drama can transport you thousands of miles with the power of the voices, evocative music and sound effects. So why was the recent Afternoon Drama serial 'A Kidnapping' recorded on-location in Manila? Many Feedback listeners loved the production, but some felt recording in the Philippines was a waste of their licence fee. 'A Kidnapping' Director John Dryden discusses the serial and the costs of recording radio drama abroad.
Many of you will be more familiar with Jane Garvey, Eddie Mair, and Julian Worricker on Radio 4, but they were all part of the original team at 5Live when it launched in 1994 - twenty years ago this week. While they may have flown the nest to join Radio 4, Peter Allen (Jane Garvey's co-host at 5Live Breakfast) has remained. We'll be speaking to Peter about his memories of the station's early days.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Evan Davis vs Iain Duncan Smith, and why is Radio 3 in a box on the South Bank?A Today interview is never an easy ride for politicians. But listeners tuning in this week felt Evan Davis's interview with the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Iain Duncan Smith, too things too far. We hear those views.
It's an altogether more civilised affair as Roger Bolton drops in on Radio 3's 'pop up' studio at the Royal Festival Hall in London's Southbank Centre. For the past fortnight, Radio 3 have broadcast their live programmes from a perspex box. Radio 3's editorial team, producers and presenters have been meeting audiences. We'll be speaking to In Tune presenter Sean Rafferty and some of his adoring public.
Radio drama can transport you thousands of miles with the power of the voices, evocative music and sound effects. So why was the recent Afternoon Drama serial 'A Kidnapping' recorded on-location in Manila? Many Feedback listeners loved the production, but some felt recording in the Philippines was a waste of their licence fee. 'A Kidnapping' Director John Dryden discusses the serial and the costs of recording radio drama abroad.
Many of you will be more familiar with Jane Garvey, Eddie Mair, and Julian Worricker on Radio 4, but they were all part of the original team at 5Live when it launched in 1994 - twenty years ago this week. While they may have flown the nest to join Radio 4, Peter Allen (Jane Garvey's co-host at 5Live Breakfast) has remained. We'll be speaking to Peter about his memories of the station's early days.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 28 Mar 2014 00:00:00 +00001653http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20140328-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsb7.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b03yqyzp21/03/2014How does Radio 4 decide when to change the schedule? The death of Tony Benn last week disrupted some listeners when an Inspector Rebus drama was cancelled in favour of a documentary about the Labour grandee. Then, on Monday morning, the advertised Book of the Week was removed to make way for a re-run of Benn's diaries. Listeners have complained in the past about similar changes to scheduled programmes when Margaret Thatcher and Nelson Mandela died. Roger Bolton asks the Head of Planning and Scheduling, Tony Pilgrim, why Radio 4 does it.
Roger will also be getting lost in the issue of the week at the Moral Maze with presenter Michael Buerk, producer Phil Pegum, and panellists Claire Fox, Giles Fraser, Anne McElvoy, and Michael Portillo.
When Radio 4 announced that one of its most popular comedies, Cabin Pressure, would take to the air no more, many listeners wanted to know why. The dream cast of Benedict Cumberbatch , Stephanie Cole, Roger Allam and John Finnemore have just recorded their final episode - and 23,000 people applied for tickets. We'll be asking writer John Finnemore if he has any regrets about ending the series.
And the BBC Director General, Tony Hall, wants fifty percent of all BBC local radio breakfast shows to have at least one woman presenter - either solo or as co-host - by the end of 2014. Roger speaks to the man who has to instigate those changes David Holdsworth, the Controller of English Regions.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Why did Tony Benn knock Rebus off R4? And John Finnemore on the final Cabin Pressure.How does Radio 4 decide when to change the schedule? The death of Tony Benn last week disrupted some listeners when an Inspector Rebus drama was cancelled in favour of a documentary about the Labour grandee. Then, on Monday morning, the advertised Book of the Week was removed to make way for a re-run of Benn's diaries. Listeners have complained in the past about similar changes to scheduled programmes when Margaret Thatcher and Nelson Mandela died. Roger Bolton asks the Head of Planning and Scheduling, Tony Pilgrim, why Radio 4 does it.
Roger will also be getting lost in the issue of the week at the Moral Maze with presenter Michael Buerk, producer Phil Pegum, and panellists Claire Fox, Giles Fraser, Anne McElvoy, and Michael Portillo.
When Radio 4 announced that one of its most popular comedies, Cabin Pressure, would take to the air no more, many listeners wanted to know why. The dream cast of Benedict Cumberbatch , Stephanie Cole, Roger Allam and John Finnemore have just recorded their final episode - and 23,000 people applied for tickets. We'll be asking writer John Finnemore if he has any regrets about ending the series.
And the BBC Director General, Tony Hall, wants fifty percent of all BBC local radio breakfast shows to have at least one woman presenter - either solo or as co-host - by the end of 2014. Roger speaks to the man who has to instigate those changes David Holdsworth, the Controller of English Regions.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 21 Mar 2014 00:00:00 +00001659http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20140321-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsbf.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b03y3lkg14/03/2014Is anyone at the BBC listening? This week we'll be talking to John Humphrys about whether liberal bias at the BBC has put it out of step with public opinion, and whether anything is changing. And there's a tale of sabotage and sacrilege in a Lincolnshire abbey.
In an interview with this week's Radio Times, John Humphrys admitted the BBC had, in the past, been wrong in its coverage of immigration and Europe. "We weren't sufficiently sceptical - that's the most accurate phrase - of the pro-European case. We bought into the European ideal". And he went on to say that the BBC has been "grotesquely over-managed". Roger Bolton asks John what has changed and whether BBC presenters should criticise their employer.
Roger's also been brushing up his Welsh this week to speak to the Editor of Programmes for BBC Radio Cymru, Betsan Powys. Following a dispute with Welsh musicians and a fall in listener figures, BBC Radio Cymru, the only national Welsh language radio station, decided it needed to start listening to its audience. After months of conversations with listeners, Radio Cymru has re-launched with a dramatic shake-up to its schedules. Will it work? And will they still be listening now they've made the changes?
And our quest to find the very first bells broadcast on the BBC takes us to a small town in the Midlands to hear a listeners' fascinating tale of a nefarious plot to foil the broadcasters.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Talking about BBC liberal bias with John Humphrys, and listeners get listened to in Wales.Is anyone at the BBC listening? This week we'll be talking to John Humphrys about whether liberal bias at the BBC has put it out of step with public opinion, and whether anything is changing. And there's a tale of sabotage and sacrilege in a Lincolnshire abbey.
In an interview with this week's Radio Times, John Humphrys admitted the BBC had, in the past, been wrong in its coverage of immigration and Europe. "We weren't sufficiently sceptical - that's the most accurate phrase - of the pro-European case. We bought into the European ideal". And he went on to say that the BBC has been "grotesquely over-managed". Roger Bolton asks John what has changed and whether BBC presenters should criticise their employer.
Roger's also been brushing up his Welsh this week to speak to the Editor of Programmes for BBC Radio Cymru, Betsan Powys. Following a dispute with Welsh musicians and a fall in listener figures, BBC Radio Cymru, the only national Welsh language radio station, decided it needed to start listening to its audience. After months of conversations with listeners, Radio Cymru has re-launched with a dramatic shake-up to its schedules. Will it work? And will they still be listening now they've made the changes?
And our quest to find the very first bells broadcast on the BBC takes us to a small town in the Midlands to hear a listeners' fascinating tale of a nefarious plot to foil the broadcasters.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 14 Mar 2014 00:00:00 +00001664http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20140314-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsbq.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b03xgswb07/03/2014Amidst a sea of glitz and glamour at last Sunday's Oscars, one other moment stood out. It was BBC arts and entertainment correspondent Colin Paterson's appearance on the Today programme, live from the red carpet. Colin's attempts to grab the attention of U2 singer Bono, live on the programme has been the talk of Twitter, media commentators, and BBC 5Live. But some Feedback listeners were not amused. Colin Paterson tells us what happened.
Also, you can normally set your watch by the 8.30am switchover from the Today programme to Yesterday in Parliament on BBC Radio 4 Long Wave. But on Tuesday morning it failed to appear. Why? And did this break the BBC's Agreement to "transmit an impartial account day by day of the proceedings in both Houses of Parliament"? We speak to Peter Knowles, Editor of BBC Parliamentary programmes.
And Roger Bolton visits the BBC Radio 4 Sunday morning programme Broadcasting House to find out whether your emails really get read and how much they influence the programme. He'll be interrogating their inbox and speaking to presenter Paddy O'Connell and the BH team.
And a listener remembers a terrifying voice from broadcast history.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Bono! Bono! Or was it Oh No? And how much does Broadcasting House listen to listeners?Amidst a sea of glitz and glamour at last Sunday's Oscars, one other moment stood out. It was BBC arts and entertainment correspondent Colin Paterson's appearance on the Today programme, live from the red carpet. Colin's attempts to grab the attention of U2 singer Bono, live on the programme has been the talk of Twitter, media commentators, and BBC 5Live. But some Feedback listeners were not amused. Colin Paterson tells us what happened.
Also, you can normally set your watch by the 8.30am switchover from the Today programme to Yesterday in Parliament on BBC Radio 4 Long Wave. But on Tuesday morning it failed to appear. Why? And did this break the BBC's Agreement to "transmit an impartial account day by day of the proceedings in both Houses of Parliament"? We speak to Peter Knowles, Editor of BBC Parliamentary programmes.
And Roger Bolton visits the BBC Radio 4 Sunday morning programme Broadcasting House to find out whether your emails really get read and how much they influence the programme. He'll be interrogating their inbox and speaking to presenter Paddy O'Connell and the BH team.
And a listener remembers a terrifying voice from broadcast history.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 07 Mar 2014 00:00:00 +00001655http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20140307-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsbx.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b03wsnwv28/02/2014Listen to this week's Feedback with the lights on because we're talking horror. Radio 4 has just broadcast an adaptation of The Exorcist, the 1971 novel which tells the story of the possession and battle for a little girl's soul and became an infamously head-spinning 1973 film. With demonic possession and very strong language, Radio 4's version was hardly a bedtime story, despite its 11pm slot. So why did they do it? And are the pictures scarier on the radio? Roger Bolton speaks to The Exorcist producer Gaynor MacFarlane and Radio 4's Commissioning Editor for Drama, Jeremy Howe.
Also, what does power really mean? We'll be speaking to the editor of Woman's Hour Alice Feinstein about the launch of this year's Power List. And we'll hear why forensic science can be incredibly moving.
We also discover what happens when a 21-year-old listener plays Roger Bolton for the day? Radio 1Xtra fan Claire Bynoe is our guide to Radio 1 and 1Xtra's Access All Areas - a month-long audience takeover that's seen young people controlling everything from DJs to playlists and watching and listening from all angles. Claire was one of a few listeners chosen to take part in Access All Areas Studios, which gave them the chance to do whatever they wanted in a BBC studio for an hour. She'll be putting Radio 1/1Xtra editor Rebecca Frank and producer Aled Haydn-Jones in the hot seat.
Producers: Karen Pirie and Katherine Godfrey
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Is Radio 4 trying to scare listeners senseless? And the scientist who moved you to tears.Listen to this week's Feedback with the lights on because we're talking horror. Radio 4 has just broadcast an adaptation of The Exorcist, the 1971 novel which tells the story of the possession and battle for a little girl's soul and became an infamously head-spinning 1973 film. With demonic possession and very strong language, Radio 4's version was hardly a bedtime story, despite its 11pm slot. So why did they do it? And are the pictures scarier on the radio? Roger Bolton speaks to The Exorcist producer Gaynor MacFarlane and Radio 4's Commissioning Editor for Drama, Jeremy Howe.
Also, what does power really mean? We'll be speaking to the editor of Woman's Hour Alice Feinstein about the launch of this year's Power List. And we'll hear why forensic science can be incredibly moving.
We also discover what happens when a 21-year-old listener plays Roger Bolton for the day? Radio 1Xtra fan Claire Bynoe is our guide to Radio 1 and 1Xtra's Access All Areas - a month-long audience takeover that's seen young people controlling everything from DJs to playlists and watching and listening from all angles. Claire was one of a few listeners chosen to take part in Access All Areas Studios, which gave them the chance to do whatever they wanted in a BBC studio for an hour. She'll be putting Radio 1/1Xtra editor Rebecca Frank and producer Aled Haydn-Jones in the hot seat.
Producers: Karen Pirie and Katherine Godfrey
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 28 Feb 2014 00:00:00 +00001661http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20140228-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsc2.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b03w3g5921/02/2014The Today programme says its "fair, balanced and impartial" in its science coverage. The statement came in response to comments after interviewing former Chancellor of the Exchequer Lord Lawson, a climate change sceptic, alongside Sir Brain Hoskins, Professor of Meteorology and Director of the Grantham Institute of Climate Change at Imperial College. Today was the cause of further frustration on Monday when many listeners felt a story about genetically modified potatoes had no opposing side represented. We speak to some of those listeners about Today's coverage of controversies in science.
British success at the Sochi Winter Olympics has created added interest in the games - as well as an 'enthusiastic' response from TV commentator Aimee Fuller to snowboarder Jenny Jones' bronze medal win last week. But what about radio coverage from Sochi? We'll be asking the Head of BBC radio sport, Richard Burgess, why 5Live Sports Extra has been quiet throughout the games when listeners have an appetite for more from Sochi.
The BBC's Director of Television, Danny Cohen, has promised no more all-male comedy panel shows. We find out from the Radio 4 Commissioning Editor for Comedy whether Radio 4 will also go so far as to ban all-male comedy shows.
And Feedback listener and folk music enthusiast Diana Butler takes us behind the scenes at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards to find out whether the network is pushing this once niche music into the mainstream.
Producers: Karen Pirie and Katherine Godfrey
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Anger over Today's science coverage. Plus, Brits who? We're at the Radio 2 Folk Awards.The Today programme says its "fair, balanced and impartial" in its science coverage. The statement came in response to comments after interviewing former Chancellor of the Exchequer Lord Lawson, a climate change sceptic, alongside Sir Brain Hoskins, Professor of Meteorology and Director of the Grantham Institute of Climate Change at Imperial College. Today was the cause of further frustration on Monday when many listeners felt a story about genetically modified potatoes had no opposing side represented. We speak to some of those listeners about Today's coverage of controversies in science.
British success at the Sochi Winter Olympics has created added interest in the games - as well as an 'enthusiastic' response from TV commentator Aimee Fuller to snowboarder Jenny Jones' bronze medal win last week. But what about radio coverage from Sochi? We'll be asking the Head of BBC radio sport, Richard Burgess, why 5Live Sports Extra has been quiet throughout the games when listeners have an appetite for more from Sochi.
The BBC's Director of Television, Danny Cohen, has promised no more all-male comedy panel shows. We find out from the Radio 4 Commissioning Editor for Comedy whether Radio 4 will also go so far as to ban all-male comedy shows.
And Feedback listener and folk music enthusiast Diana Butler takes us behind the scenes at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards to find out whether the network is pushing this once niche music into the mainstream.
Producers: Karen Pirie and Katherine Godfrey
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 21 Feb 2014 00:00:00 +00001663http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20140221-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsc7.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b03vh0cq14/02/2014Should the Today programme have invited Lord Lawson, a former Chancellor of the Exchequer and now chairman of the Global Warming Policy Foundation, to comment on climate change? On Thursday morning, as the floods across Britain continued to make the headlines, Feedback listeners poured scorn on a Today programme discussion between Lord Lawson and Sir Brian Hoskins, a government climate change adviser from Imperial College in London. We'll hear why they were so angered by the debate.
The other issue dominating our inbox this week is the change to the radio section of BBC iPlayer. Changes to the way listeners access their favourite programmes on demand have caused confusion for some users, who contacted us asking why the switchover has happened - and without warning. Mark Friend, the Radio Controller for Multiplatform, takes to the phones in an iPlayer clinic with frustrated listeners.
We'll also be finding out how our intrepid radio swap listeners Edward Harkins and Katherine Wilson have been finding their new breakfast listening. Katherine, a die-hard Today fan, headed north for her news to Good Morning Scotland - which has been Edward's breakfast show of choice for years. They chat with James Naughtie, who's currently occupying both territories as a voice on Today and on Good Morning Scotland.
Scotland has been on the minds of many listeners, north and south of the Scottish border, ahead of the referendum in September. Roger Bolton speaks to the Editor of BBC Scotland's Referendum Unit, John Mullins, to find out how the BBC tries to ensure its coverage is unbiased.
Producers: Karen Pirie and Katherine Godfrey
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Referendum coverage, iPlayer woes, and is Lord Lawson a suitable guest on climate change?Should the Today programme have invited Lord Lawson, a former Chancellor of the Exchequer and now chairman of the Global Warming Policy Foundation, to comment on climate change? On Thursday morning, as the floods across Britain continued to make the headlines, Feedback listeners poured scorn on a Today programme discussion between Lord Lawson and Sir Brian Hoskins, a government climate change adviser from Imperial College in London. We'll hear why they were so angered by the debate.
The other issue dominating our inbox this week is the change to the radio section of BBC iPlayer. Changes to the way listeners access their favourite programmes on demand have caused confusion for some users, who contacted us asking why the switchover has happened - and without warning. Mark Friend, the Radio Controller for Multiplatform, takes to the phones in an iPlayer clinic with frustrated listeners.
We'll also be finding out how our intrepid radio swap listeners Edward Harkins and Katherine Wilson have been finding their new breakfast listening. Katherine, a die-hard Today fan, headed north for her news to Good Morning Scotland - which has been Edward's breakfast show of choice for years. They chat with James Naughtie, who's currently occupying both territories as a voice on Today and on Good Morning Scotland.
Scotland has been on the minds of many listeners, north and south of the Scottish border, ahead of the referendum in September. Roger Bolton speaks to the Editor of BBC Scotland's Referendum Unit, John Mullins, to find out how the BBC tries to ensure its coverage is unbiased.
Producers: Karen Pirie and Katherine Godfrey
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 14 Feb 2014 00:00:00 +00001661http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20140214-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppscc.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b03ttmdw07/02/2014BBC Radio News is becoming too tabloid. That's one of the accusations from some listeners who think the coverage of celebrity affairs and accusations of sexual abuse by former entertainers is given disproportionate time in comparison with 'serious' updates from Syria, for example.
This week, Roger Bolton visits the BBC Newsroom in the shiny, one-year-old New Broadcasting House in London, to find out who sets the news agenda and why. He'll be speaking to the Editor of the BBC Radio Newsroom, Richard Clarke.
Roger will also be asking why BBC Radio 4 news bulletins revealed the results of BBC One's Fake or Fortune before the programme was broadcast - much to the disappointment of many Feedback listeners.
We'll also be speaking to the BBC's Chief Economics Correspondent, Hugh Pym, about what makes a top story. And joining BBC newsreader Zeb Soanes to find out what happens when it all goes wrong minutes before he's about to read a bulletin.
And is Ambridge Extra taking off its wellies for good? Some of your reactions to the news that The Archers spin-off will be taking a rest.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Who sets the news agenda, and why did Radio 4 spoil the result of BBC's Fake or Fortune?BBC Radio News is becoming too tabloid. That's one of the accusations from some listeners who think the coverage of celebrity affairs and accusations of sexual abuse by former entertainers is given disproportionate time in comparison with 'serious' updates from Syria, for example.
This week, Roger Bolton visits the BBC Newsroom in the shiny, one-year-old New Broadcasting House in London, to find out who sets the news agenda and why. He'll be speaking to the Editor of the BBC Radio Newsroom, Richard Clarke.
Roger will also be asking why BBC Radio 4 news bulletins revealed the results of BBC One's Fake or Fortune before the programme was broadcast - much to the disappointment of many Feedback listeners.
We'll also be speaking to the BBC's Chief Economics Correspondent, Hugh Pym, about what makes a top story. And joining BBC newsreader Zeb Soanes to find out what happens when it all goes wrong minutes before he's about to read a bulletin.
And is Ambridge Extra taking off its wellies for good? Some of your reactions to the news that The Archers spin-off will be taking a rest.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 07 Feb 2014 00:00:00 +00001664http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20140207-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppscg.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b03t37jx13/12/2013The news of Nelson Mandela's death reverberated around the world on Thursday evening. But by Friday morning it dominated not only the news but also the normal schedule across BBC Radio 4. Many listeners were frustrated by the coverage which they say was just too much, and at the expense of important national news about the worst storms for a generation and the Autumn Statement. And the coverage continues. We speak to the Head of the BBC Newsroom, Mary Hockaday, and ask whether Nelson Mandela's death really warranted all that airtime.
And is Radio 4 becoming a speech and music network? Listeners are divided about whether melody has a place as part of Radio 4's speech output with programmes like Mastertapes, Soul Music and dedicated music documentaries all occupying airtime in recent weeks. We speak to Radio 4's Commissioning Editor for the Arts, Tony Phillips, about whether there are now more music programmes on the network.
While popular music may not be every listener's cup of tea, there are certainly plenty of you who enjoy the dulcet tones of bells on Radio 4. Last week Denis Nowlan, Radio 4's Network Manager, asked for listeners' help to reveal when bells were first heard on a Sunday on the network. Since then, we've heard from many of you who remember them from your childhood.
We'll also be visiting Ambridge to speak to the woman who presides over sixty years of history - The Archers Archivist, Camilla Fisher. She's joined by long-term script writer Joanna Toye to pull out some hidden gems from the thousands of minute details she holds about characters' lives.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Was the coverage of Nelson Mandela's death too much? And is music taking over Radio 4?The news of Nelson Mandela's death reverberated around the world on Thursday evening. But by Friday morning it dominated not only the news but also the normal schedule across BBC Radio 4. Many listeners were frustrated by the coverage which they say was just too much, and at the expense of important national news about the worst storms for a generation and the Autumn Statement. And the coverage continues. We speak to the Head of the BBC Newsroom, Mary Hockaday, and ask whether Nelson Mandela's death really warranted all that airtime.
And is Radio 4 becoming a speech and music network? Listeners are divided about whether melody has a place as part of Radio 4's speech output with programmes like Mastertapes, Soul Music and dedicated music documentaries all occupying airtime in recent weeks. We speak to Radio 4's Commissioning Editor for the Arts, Tony Phillips, about whether there are now more music programmes on the network.
While popular music may not be every listener's cup of tea, there are certainly plenty of you who enjoy the dulcet tones of bells on Radio 4. Last week Denis Nowlan, Radio 4's Network Manager, asked for listeners' help to reveal when bells were first heard on a Sunday on the network. Since then, we've heard from many of you who remember them from your childhood.
We'll also be visiting Ambridge to speak to the woman who presides over sixty years of history - The Archers Archivist, Camilla Fisher. She's joined by long-term script writer Joanna Toye to pull out some hidden gems from the thousands of minute details she holds about characters' lives.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 13 Dec 2013 00:00:00 +00001660http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20131213-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppscm.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b03kvd4z06/12/2013Did Radio 4 devote far too much airtime this week to the marital strife of a cook and an ad man? That's the view of many Feedback listeners who complained that the BBC became more gossip-mag than public service broadcaster in its coverage of Nigella Lawson and Charles Saatchi's very public divorce.
Also, why has Radio 4 been asking sailors how they get their weather information? Does this signal the beginning of the end for The Shipping Forecast? Network manager Denis Nowlan eases listeners' fears.
And we wander the lanes of Ambridge with the Archers Archivist, Camilla Fisher and long-term writer Jo Toye, who give us the lowdown on how they ensure all the characters are in the right place at the right time.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Too much Nigella on Radio 4? And a trip to Ambridge with the Archers archivist.Did Radio 4 devote far too much airtime this week to the marital strife of a cook and an ad man? That's the view of many Feedback listeners who complained that the BBC became more gossip-mag than public service broadcaster in its coverage of Nigella Lawson and Charles Saatchi's very public divorce.
Also, why has Radio 4 been asking sailors how they get their weather information? Does this signal the beginning of the end for The Shipping Forecast? Network manager Denis Nowlan eases listeners' fears.
And we wander the lanes of Ambridge with the Archers Archivist, Camilla Fisher and long-term writer Jo Toye, who give us the lowdown on how they ensure all the characters are in the right place at the right time.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 06 Dec 2013 00:00:00 +00001659http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20131206-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppscs.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b03kk9bp29/11/2013There are irritants aplenty this week as listeners tell us about the Radio 4 programmes that have driven them to distraction. Many of them wrote to ask why Radio 4's Book of the Week about the life of former French president Mitterrand used French accents that rendered it more 'Allo 'Allo! than serious biography.
And many other listeners are infuriated by the repeated use of just four piano notes heard in Radio 4's A History of Britain in Numbers. The series' Executive Producer, David Prest, tells us why they decided to use a 'motif' that some say distracted them from the vital statistics.
We'll also be talking to the Controller of BBC Radio 2, Bob Shennan. While Radio 2's audience reached a record high of 15 million this year, the changes to the Sunday evening schedule and the loss of firm favourites like Big Band Special and Russell Davies has left some listeners deeply disappointed. The Controller explains why he made the changes.
And should an active politician appear on Desert Island Discs? We air your views on Ed Miliband's appearance on Sunday's edition.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.The controller of Radio 2 answers his audience, plus French accents on Book of the Week.There are irritants aplenty this week as listeners tell us about the Radio 4 programmes that have driven them to distraction. Many of them wrote to ask why Radio 4's Book of the Week about the life of former French president Mitterrand used French accents that rendered it more 'Allo 'Allo! than serious biography.
And many other listeners are infuriated by the repeated use of just four piano notes heard in Radio 4's A History of Britain in Numbers. The series' Executive Producer, David Prest, tells us why they decided to use a 'motif' that some say distracted them from the vital statistics.
We'll also be talking to the Controller of BBC Radio 2, Bob Shennan. While Radio 2's audience reached a record high of 15 million this year, the changes to the Sunday evening schedule and the loss of firm favourites like Big Band Special and Russell Davies has left some listeners deeply disappointed. The Controller explains why he made the changes.
And should an active politician appear on Desert Island Discs? We air your views on Ed Miliband's appearance on Sunday's edition.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 29 Nov 2013 00:00:00 +00001660http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20131129-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppscx.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b03jfmqc22/11/2013Radio 4's Mastertapes returned for a third series last week, with John Wilson talking to musicians about a career-defining album in front of a live audience. The series began with Robbie Williams discussing his debut solo album Life Thru a Lens. But would the programme be more at home on a music network like Radio 2 or 6Music, rather than Radio 4? Roger Bolton talks to the series producer Paul Kobrak about the place for a programme like Mastertapes on a speech network.
When Any Questions visited the historic Chartwell House for last Friday's broadcast, presenter Jonathan Dimbleby was cut off just as the programme began, only to return seemingly on the telephone. And later in the week, James Naughtie was oblivious that he had dropped off the air for twelve seconds during the Today programme. Is Radio 4 the victim of sabotage or is there a ghost in the machine?
There is a takeover happening at the Beeb - some lucky listeners will be invading studios, cropping up as the voice of 'Previously on PM', and even visiting Ambridge (or at least the studio where The Archers is recorded). They're the winners of charity auctions to raise money for Children in Need. But some listeners wonder whether this type of fundraising is unfair to those without large sums of money to spare and ask whether a lottery would be fairer. Roger Bolton speaks to Children in Need's Head of Editorial, Gareth Hydes.
And we're looking for your questions for the Controller of BBC Radio 2, Bob Shennan. He'll be joining Roger Bolton next week to hear your comments and answer whatever you'd like to ask him. So please send your thoughts to us using the usual contact methods.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Does Robbie Williams belong on Radio 4, and are ghosts in the machine at Any Questions?Radio 4's Mastertapes returned for a third series last week, with John Wilson talking to musicians about a career-defining album in front of a live audience. The series began with Robbie Williams discussing his debut solo album Life Thru a Lens. But would the programme be more at home on a music network like Radio 2 or 6Music, rather than Radio 4? Roger Bolton talks to the series producer Paul Kobrak about the place for a programme like Mastertapes on a speech network.
When Any Questions visited the historic Chartwell House for last Friday's broadcast, presenter Jonathan Dimbleby was cut off just as the programme began, only to return seemingly on the telephone. And later in the week, James Naughtie was oblivious that he had dropped off the air for twelve seconds during the Today programme. Is Radio 4 the victim of sabotage or is there a ghost in the machine?
There is a takeover happening at the Beeb - some lucky listeners will be invading studios, cropping up as the voice of 'Previously on PM', and even visiting Ambridge (or at least the studio where The Archers is recorded). They're the winners of charity auctions to raise money for Children in Need. But some listeners wonder whether this type of fundraising is unfair to those without large sums of money to spare and ask whether a lottery would be fairer. Roger Bolton speaks to Children in Need's Head of Editorial, Gareth Hydes.
And we're looking for your questions for the Controller of BBC Radio 2, Bob Shennan. He'll be joining Roger Bolton next week to hear your comments and answer whatever you'd like to ask him. So please send your thoughts to us using the usual contact methods.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 22 Nov 2013 00:00:00 +00001658http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20131122-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsd0.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b03hxkk915/11/2013Was last week's edition of Radio 4's Profile programme sexist? Some Feedback listeners have accused the programme of just that after a profile of the new Director of Public Prosecutions, Alison Saunders, featured numerous references to her cooking and baking abilities. In this week's Feedback, the Editor of Profile, Richard Knight, defends the programme.
Roger Bolton also speaks to Ric Bailey, the BBC's Chief Political Advisor, about the challenges facing the Corporation in the lead up to the Scottish Referendum. How can it ensure impartiality in its coverage? The BBC Trust has launched a 12 week consultation seeking views on the BBC Executive's proposed additional guidelines for reporting on the referendum. Visit the BBC Trust website to find out how you can have your say.
Also this week, meet the new generation of Just A Minute panellists who are giving Paul Merton, Sue Perkins, and Graham Norton a run for their money on Radio 4 Extra's Junior Just a Minute.
And a radio fan digs out a rare edition of Feedback from almost exactly thirty years ago and finds an unexpectedly topical item about Radio 4 continuity announcer Susan Rae.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Was Radio 4's Profile programme sexist? And BBC impartiality for Scotland's referendum.Was last week's edition of Radio 4's Profile programme sexist? Some Feedback listeners have accused the programme of just that after a profile of the new Director of Public Prosecutions, Alison Saunders, featured numerous references to her cooking and baking abilities. In this week's Feedback, the Editor of Profile, Richard Knight, defends the programme.
Roger Bolton also speaks to Ric Bailey, the BBC's Chief Political Advisor, about the challenges facing the Corporation in the lead up to the Scottish Referendum. How can it ensure impartiality in its coverage? The BBC Trust has launched a 12 week consultation seeking views on the BBC Executive's proposed additional guidelines for reporting on the referendum. Visit the BBC Trust website to find out how you can have your say.
Also this week, meet the new generation of Just A Minute panellists who are giving Paul Merton, Sue Perkins, and Graham Norton a run for their money on Radio 4 Extra's Junior Just a Minute.
And a radio fan digs out a rare edition of Feedback from almost exactly thirty years ago and finds an unexpectedly topical item about Radio 4 continuity announcer Susan Rae.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 15 Nov 2013 00:00:00 +00001650http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20131115-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsd5.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b03h7gs908/11/2013The last of the Reith Lectures was delivered earlier this week. Grayson Perry's series of four lectures on the world of contemporary art has had, in the words of their Commissioning Editor, 'by far the most response ever for a series of Reith Lectures'. Feedback has received many letters of congratulations for Grayson Perry but some listeners question whether the programmes have been in keeping with the Reith Lectures' reputation for showcasing the thoughts of 'significant international thinkers'. We ask Mohit Bakaya, the Commissioning Editor for the Reith Lectures, why he chose Mr Perry and whether anyone can now follow him?
Last week we spoke to Radio 4's Drama Commissioner, Jeremy Howe, about why the network decided to air G.F. Newman's The Corrupted over ten consecutive editions of the Afternoon Drama, especially given its violent and sexual content. This week, many of you wrote to heap praise on the series and the experimental scheduling. But some listeners were deeply disappointed that the first five of the episodes disappeared from BBC iPlayer before the series ended.
Too late for fans of The Corrupted, but changes to BBC iPlayer are afoot which will mean that many programmes remain available for thirty days. We speak to the Controller of Multi-Platforms for BBC Radio Mark Friend to find out more.
And it's one of the most coveted slots on Radio 4, so how do authors and publishers get picked for Book of The Week? Roger Bolton speaks to the Commissioning Editor for the series, Jane Ellison.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Is Grayson Perry a tough act to follow? We ask the Reith Lectures commissioner.The last of the Reith Lectures was delivered earlier this week. Grayson Perry's series of four lectures on the world of contemporary art has had, in the words of their Commissioning Editor, 'by far the most response ever for a series of Reith Lectures'. Feedback has received many letters of congratulations for Grayson Perry but some listeners question whether the programmes have been in keeping with the Reith Lectures' reputation for showcasing the thoughts of 'significant international thinkers'. We ask Mohit Bakaya, the Commissioning Editor for the Reith Lectures, why he chose Mr Perry and whether anyone can now follow him?
Last week we spoke to Radio 4's Drama Commissioner, Jeremy Howe, about why the network decided to air G.F. Newman's The Corrupted over ten consecutive editions of the Afternoon Drama, especially given its violent and sexual content. This week, many of you wrote to heap praise on the series and the experimental scheduling. But some listeners were deeply disappointed that the first five of the episodes disappeared from BBC iPlayer before the series ended.
Too late for fans of The Corrupted, but changes to BBC iPlayer are afoot which will mean that many programmes remain available for thirty days. We speak to the Controller of Multi-Platforms for BBC Radio Mark Friend to find out more.
And it's one of the most coveted slots on Radio 4, so how do authors and publishers get picked for Book of The Week? Roger Bolton speaks to the Commissioning Editor for the series, Jane Ellison.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 08 Nov 2013 00:00:00 +00001655http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20131108-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsd7.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b03ggrqq01/11/2013Has Radio 4 been taken over by corrupting influences? Author G F Newman's The Corrupted has aired every weekday for the past two weeks in the Afternoon Drama slot, usually the place for one-off plays. Some listeners are not happy about it, especially with the sexual and violent content of the drama that some feel goes too far for broadcasts during half term. We talk to Radio 4's Commissioning Editor for Drama, Jeremy Howe, about why he felt the The Corrupted was worth 7 hours of airtime over just two weeks.
Jane Garvey joins Roger Bolton to discuss issues raised by her recent Radio 4 series Getting On Air, which charts five landmark moments in the history of women in broadcasting. Is there now true equality in radio?
Plus, two Bobs for the price of one on Radio 2. When the clocks went back early on Sunday morning, listeners expecting an extra hour of Whispering Bob Harris got more than they bargained for when two different parts of the programme played out over each other for twenty minutes. So what went wrong and what's to stop it happening again?
And your thoughts on Grayson Perry's Reith Lectures ahead of our interview with Commissioning Editor Mohit Bakaya next week. You can send your questions and comments about the Reith lectures to us using the usual contact methods.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Why GF Newman's The Corrupted took over the Afternoon Drama slot for two weeks.Has Radio 4 been taken over by corrupting influences? Author G F Newman's The Corrupted has aired every weekday for the past two weeks in the Afternoon Drama slot, usually the place for one-off plays. Some listeners are not happy about it, especially with the sexual and violent content of the drama that some feel goes too far for broadcasts during half term. We talk to Radio 4's Commissioning Editor for Drama, Jeremy Howe, about why he felt the The Corrupted was worth 7 hours of airtime over just two weeks.
Jane Garvey joins Roger Bolton to discuss issues raised by her recent Radio 4 series Getting On Air, which charts five landmark moments in the history of women in broadcasting. Is there now true equality in radio?
Plus, two Bobs for the price of one on Radio 2. When the clocks went back early on Sunday morning, listeners expecting an extra hour of Whispering Bob Harris got more than they bargained for when two different parts of the programme played out over each other for twenty minutes. So what went wrong and what's to stop it happening again?
And your thoughts on Grayson Perry's Reith Lectures ahead of our interview with Commissioning Editor Mohit Bakaya next week. You can send your questions and comments about the Reith lectures to us using the usual contact methods.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 01 Nov 2013 00:00:00 +00001651http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20131101-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsdd.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b03fgrcm25/10/2013In this week's Feedback, Roger Bolton speaks to the BBC's Director of Editorial Policy and Standards, David Jordan, about 'due impartiality' in climate change coverage.
And writer Morwenna Banks explains why she chose radio to tell a powerful story of friendship in the face of breast cancer. Her Radio 4 Saturday Drama Goodbye starred acting heavyweights Olivia Colman and Natascha McElhone as Lizzie and Jen, two friends struggling to say goodbye after Lizzie's terminal diagnosis. It left many Feedback listeners astounded by its realistic and emotional portrayal of the situation.
We revisit our listener panel of four mothers in Cambridge to find out how they got along when they tried to find and use CBeebies Radio. A recent BBC Trust survey found that not one parent they spoke to knew how to access the CBeebies radio service - did the Feedback mothers fare any better? And Roger speaks to the Controller of CBeebies, Kay Benbow, to find out what they are doing to publicise CBeebies Radio.
And from Raa Raa the Lion to Reith - we hear from some Feedback listeners' views on Grayson Perry's Reith Lectures.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Morwenna Banks on her radio drama that stopped listeners in their tracks.In this week's Feedback, Roger Bolton speaks to the BBC's Director of Editorial Policy and Standards, David Jordan, about 'due impartiality' in climate change coverage.
And writer Morwenna Banks explains why she chose radio to tell a powerful story of friendship in the face of breast cancer. Her Radio 4 Saturday Drama Goodbye starred acting heavyweights Olivia Colman and Natascha McElhone as Lizzie and Jen, two friends struggling to say goodbye after Lizzie's terminal diagnosis. It left many Feedback listeners astounded by its realistic and emotional portrayal of the situation.
We revisit our listener panel of four mothers in Cambridge to find out how they got along when they tried to find and use CBeebies Radio. A recent BBC Trust survey found that not one parent they spoke to knew how to access the CBeebies radio service - did the Feedback mothers fare any better? And Roger speaks to the Controller of CBeebies, Kay Benbow, to find out what they are doing to publicise CBeebies Radio.
And from Raa Raa the Lion to Reith - we hear from some Feedback listeners' views on Grayson Perry's Reith Lectures.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 25 Oct 2013 01:00:00 +01001665http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20131025-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsdj.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b03dvx6j18/10/2013Does the BBC still need to balance climate change science with sceptical views on the other side? After the World At One gave airtime to a climate change denier, Bob Carter, Feedback listeners questioned whether this was impartiality gone mad. We speak to Professor Steve Jones, who wrote a report for the BBC Trust on the impartiality and accuracy of the BBC's science coverage, about where to draw the line.
Nobel Prize winners, top-selling novelists, former presidents and Russell Brand. There's stiff competition for a place on Desert Island Discs. Regardless of the guest, the much-loved series rarely causes Feedback listeners to comment, but when naturalist and TV presenter Chris Packham was castaway with Kirsty Young last week, many wrote to say how moved they were by his honesty and refreshing musical choices. We hear Chris' view of the experience.
Also this week, have you heard CBeebies radio? No? Well neither had any of the parents surveyed in a recent BBC Trust review into children's services. Feedback reporter Catherine Carr visits four mums who have agreed to give it a go.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Should climate change sceptics be given airtime? Where has CBeebies radio been hiding?Does the BBC still need to balance climate change science with sceptical views on the other side? After the World At One gave airtime to a climate change denier, Bob Carter, Feedback listeners questioned whether this was impartiality gone mad. We speak to Professor Steve Jones, who wrote a report for the BBC Trust on the impartiality and accuracy of the BBC's science coverage, about where to draw the line.
Nobel Prize winners, top-selling novelists, former presidents and Russell Brand. There's stiff competition for a place on Desert Island Discs. Regardless of the guest, the much-loved series rarely causes Feedback listeners to comment, but when naturalist and TV presenter Chris Packham was castaway with Kirsty Young last week, many wrote to say how moved they were by his honesty and refreshing musical choices. We hear Chris' view of the experience.
Also this week, have you heard CBeebies radio? No? Well neither had any of the parents surveyed in a recent BBC Trust review into children's services. Feedback reporter Catherine Carr visits four mums who have agreed to give it a go.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 18 Oct 2013 01:00:00 +01001657http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20131018-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsdl.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b03cv47r11/10/2013This week the BBC Director General Tony Hall unveiled his vision for the future of the corporation. At its heart is technology. A new app called Open Minds will draw programmes from across the BBC's speech radio output and Radio 1 is to lead the way in becoming an audio-visual network with its own video channel on BBC iPlayer to host exclusive interviews and performances. We speak to the Controller of Radio 1 and 1Xtra about visualisation and whether the future of BBC radio depends on it.But while Radio 1 is coming soon to a screen near you, some listeners have reached saturation point with the silver screen takeover of BBC Radio 3. As part of the BBC's Sound of Cinema season, the network has aired three weeks of special concerts celebrating film music and editions of regular programmes dedicated to cinema. They tell us it's been a blockbuster with their audience - but it's been a flop with some Feedback listeners.And when Inside Science replaced Material World on Radio 4 in July, many Feedback listeners were up in arms. But just how different is it to the old programme? We join presenter Adam Rutherford and his team to find out.Also, newsreader Neil Sleat has his moment in the spotlight as he reveals the inner workings of the newscaster's brain when faced with pronouncing a 35 letter Hawaiian name, live on air. Twice.Producer: Will YatesA Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Is watching radio the future? And the Radio 3 film music season - blockbuster or flop?This week the BBC Director General Tony Hall unveiled his vision for the future of the corporation. At its heart is technology. A new app called Open Minds will draw programmes from across the BBC's speech radio output and Radio 1 is to lead the way in becoming an audio-visual network with its own video channel on BBC iPlayer to host exclusive interviews and performances. We speak to the Controller of Radio 1 and 1Xtra about visualisation and whether the future of BBC radio depends on it.But while Radio 1 is coming soon to a screen near you, some listeners have reached saturation point with the silver screen takeover of BBC Radio 3. As part of the BBC's Sound of Cinema season, the network has aired three weeks of special concerts celebrating film music and editions of regular programmes dedicated to cinema. They tell us it's been a blockbuster with their audience - but it's been a flop with some Feedback listeners.And when Inside Science replaced Material World on Radio 4 in July, many Feedback listeners were up in arms. But just how different is it to the old programme? We join presenter Adam Rutherford and his team to find out.Also, newsreader Neil Sleat has his moment in the spotlight as he reveals the inner workings of the newscaster's brain when faced with pronouncing a 35 letter Hawaiian name, live on air. Twice.Producer: Will YatesA Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 11 Oct 2013 01:00:00 +01001661http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20131011-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsdp.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b03c487223/08/2013In the last programme in this series of Feedback, we bring you a special edition devoted to one of the most divisive radio subjects - comedy.
Recorded in front of an audience at the Edinburgh Fringe, Roger Bolton puts questions from listeners in the room and at home to a panel of comedy movers and shakers.
Roger is joined on stage by Radio 4 Commissioning Editor Caroline Raphael - the woman who decides what's funny enough for Radio 4 and by comedian Marcus Brigstocke, who can be heard across BBC radio in programmes like the Now Show and The Brig Society, as well as radio producer Colin Anderson and the Head of Radio for BBC Scotland, Jeff Zycinski.
There will also be some fringe talent in the form of performance poet Mark Niel and hotly-tipped newcomer Michael Fabbri.
Producer: Kevin Dawson
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.
So email: feedback@bbc.co.uk.A special edition of Feedback recorded at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.In the last programme in this series of Feedback, we bring you a special edition devoted to one of the most divisive radio subjects - comedy.
Recorded in front of an audience at the Edinburgh Fringe, Roger Bolton puts questions from listeners in the room and at home to a panel of comedy movers and shakers.
Roger is joined on stage by Radio 4 Commissioning Editor Caroline Raphael - the woman who decides what's funny enough for Radio 4 and by comedian Marcus Brigstocke, who can be heard across BBC radio in programmes like the Now Show and The Brig Society, as well as radio producer Colin Anderson and the Head of Radio for BBC Scotland, Jeff Zycinski.
There will also be some fringe talent in the form of performance poet Mark Niel and hotly-tipped newcomer Michael Fabbri.
Producer: Kevin Dawson
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.
So email: feedback@bbc.co.uk.Fri, 23 Aug 2013 01:00:00 +01001656http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20130823-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsdt.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b038jktq16/08/2013On Monday evening, just as England bowler Stuart Broad was reaching the peak of a devastating spell, listeners to Radio 4 Long Wave were ripped from the action. They were plunged into the seven o'clock news followed by The Archers. Radio 4 Network Manager Denis Nowlan explains what went wrong.
Last week we announced that The Archers is to have a new editor - Sean O'Connor will take over in September. But this week some Archers' fans were turned off by a scene involving reunited lovers Helen and Rob.
And is the rest of Radio 4 over-sexed during the school holidays? Listeners have objected to sexual content in programmes such as The Diary of Samuel Pepys, Sketchorama, and How to Have a Perfect Marriage, especially when children are more likely to be at home. Roger Bolton talks sex on the radio with Roger Mahony, Radio 4's Editor of Editorial Standards.
Over the course of this series of Feedback, we've heard from many listeners who still lament the loss of Radio 4 science programme Material World. Its replacement, Inside Science, has its fans, but the majority of Feedback listeners have not warmed to the programme during its first two months. We hear your opinions so far. And we'll be speaking the Editor of the BBC Radio Science Unit, Deborah Cohen, about Inside Science in the autumn.
Feedback listeners are extremely keen eyed and eared. We're sure you've checked this web text thoroughly for mistakes. And we certainly hope it adheres to the BBC's Style Guide, because this week Roger speaks to Ian Jolly, Style Editor for the BBC Newsroom in London. Listeners frequently write to us to note a perceived increase in Americanisms but what's the 'big deal'?
Email: feedback@bbc.co.uk.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Oo-er missus. Is Radio 4 getting a bit too saucy for the school holidays?On Monday evening, just as England bowler Stuart Broad was reaching the peak of a devastating spell, listeners to Radio 4 Long Wave were ripped from the action. They were plunged into the seven o'clock news followed by The Archers. Radio 4 Network Manager Denis Nowlan explains what went wrong.
Last week we announced that The Archers is to have a new editor - Sean O'Connor will take over in September. But this week some Archers' fans were turned off by a scene involving reunited lovers Helen and Rob.
And is the rest of Radio 4 over-sexed during the school holidays? Listeners have objected to sexual content in programmes such as The Diary of Samuel Pepys, Sketchorama, and How to Have a Perfect Marriage, especially when children are more likely to be at home. Roger Bolton talks sex on the radio with Roger Mahony, Radio 4's Editor of Editorial Standards.
Over the course of this series of Feedback, we've heard from many listeners who still lament the loss of Radio 4 science programme Material World. Its replacement, Inside Science, has its fans, but the majority of Feedback listeners have not warmed to the programme during its first two months. We hear your opinions so far. And we'll be speaking the Editor of the BBC Radio Science Unit, Deborah Cohen, about Inside Science in the autumn.
Feedback listeners are extremely keen eyed and eared. We're sure you've checked this web text thoroughly for mistakes. And we certainly hope it adheres to the BBC's Style Guide, because this week Roger speaks to Ian Jolly, Style Editor for the BBC Newsroom in London. Listeners frequently write to us to note a perceived increase in Americanisms but what's the 'big deal'?
Email: feedback@bbc.co.uk.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 16 Aug 2013 01:00:00 +01001659http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20130816-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsdw.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b0385kp909/08/2013Was the BBC's HardTalk too hard on Baritone Thomas Hampson? When Sarah Montague interviewed the opera star on the World Service and BBC News programme, opera fans around the world took umbrage. We hear from the listener whose complaint went viral and made him an overnight hero in the opera world.
Plus, is the World at One able to maintain its reputation for hard news during silly season? Roger Bolton speaks to WATO editor Nick Sutton.
The announcement that Peter Capaldi is to play the 12th Doctor was big news in TV this week, but Radio 4 is to have its own sea-change. The successor to long-serving editor of The Archers, Vanessa Whitburn, has just been announced. Sean O'Connor will take on the role from September. He was a producer for The Archers in the 1990s. But stints at EastEnders, Hollyoaks, and the salacious ITV drama Footballers' Wives have also been prominent talking points for listeners. We hear Archers addicts' hopes for the O'Connor tenure.
Former voice of Radio 4, Charlotte Green, landed her dream job this week. She'll be replacing James Alexander Gordon to read 5Live's classified football results every Saturday from the end of September. Feedback listeners wish her well, but some would still rather hear her back on Radio 4.
And we speak to one of the winners of the first BBC Writers' Prize for Radio, Sarah Hehir. Her play 'Bang Up' aired this week in the Afternoon Drama slot on BBC Radio 4.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4
Email: feedback@bbc.co.uk.New Doctor. New Archers editor. New job for Charlotte Green. It's all change at the BBC.Was the BBC's HardTalk too hard on Baritone Thomas Hampson? When Sarah Montague interviewed the opera star on the World Service and BBC News programme, opera fans around the world took umbrage. We hear from the listener whose complaint went viral and made him an overnight hero in the opera world.
Plus, is the World at One able to maintain its reputation for hard news during silly season? Roger Bolton speaks to WATO editor Nick Sutton.
The announcement that Peter Capaldi is to play the 12th Doctor was big news in TV this week, but Radio 4 is to have its own sea-change. The successor to long-serving editor of The Archers, Vanessa Whitburn, has just been announced. Sean O'Connor will take on the role from September. He was a producer for The Archers in the 1990s. But stints at EastEnders, Hollyoaks, and the salacious ITV drama Footballers' Wives have also been prominent talking points for listeners. We hear Archers addicts' hopes for the O'Connor tenure.
Former voice of Radio 4, Charlotte Green, landed her dream job this week. She'll be replacing James Alexander Gordon to read 5Live's classified football results every Saturday from the end of September. Feedback listeners wish her well, but some would still rather hear her back on Radio 4.
And we speak to one of the winners of the first BBC Writers' Prize for Radio, Sarah Hehir. Her play 'Bang Up' aired this week in the Afternoon Drama slot on BBC Radio 4.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4
Email: feedback@bbc.co.uk.Fri, 09 Aug 2013 01:00:00 +01001659http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20130809-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsdy.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b037v9jq02/08/2013The 119th Proms season is in full swing and in Feedback this week Roger Bolton meets Roger Wright, the Director of the Proms. We put listeners' questions to the Director, behind the scenes at the Royal Albert Hall.
Roger Wright is also the Controller of BBC Radio 3. And he might have something to say if his network took one Feedback listener's suggestion seriously. We hear his novel approach to toughening up Breakfast on 3 and toning down Radio 4's Today programme.
It's been a good week for the Today programme as it remains the jewel in BBC radio's breakfast crown. The Radio Joint Audience Research (RAJAR) figures published this week show Today has gained more than 200,000 listeners in the last year and that Radio 4's weekly audience is at an all-time high. Digital listening has also leapt up by 3.7 million since last year. But digital dissatisfaction is rife amongst many Feedback listeners. We hear your digital woes.
And, is it 'Silly Season' on Radio 4? While you may be listening to Feedback, many people are sunning themselves elsewhere. Indeed many of those who report and make the news also take a break in August, leaving the news bereft of, well, news. We hear from one listener who thinks Radio 4's PM has gone too far in replacing what news there is with flimsy whimsy.
Plus, details of how you apply for tickets to join us for our comedy special at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe on Friday 23rd August.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Too much Wagner, not enough Verdi? Roger Bolton talks to the director of the BBC Proms.The 119th Proms season is in full swing and in Feedback this week Roger Bolton meets Roger Wright, the Director of the Proms. We put listeners' questions to the Director, behind the scenes at the Royal Albert Hall.
Roger Wright is also the Controller of BBC Radio 3. And he might have something to say if his network took one Feedback listener's suggestion seriously. We hear his novel approach to toughening up Breakfast on 3 and toning down Radio 4's Today programme.
It's been a good week for the Today programme as it remains the jewel in BBC radio's breakfast crown. The Radio Joint Audience Research (RAJAR) figures published this week show Today has gained more than 200,000 listeners in the last year and that Radio 4's weekly audience is at an all-time high. Digital listening has also leapt up by 3.7 million since last year. But digital dissatisfaction is rife amongst many Feedback listeners. We hear your digital woes.
And, is it 'Silly Season' on Radio 4? While you may be listening to Feedback, many people are sunning themselves elsewhere. Indeed many of those who report and make the news also take a break in August, leaving the news bereft of, well, news. We hear from one listener who thinks Radio 4's PM has gone too far in replacing what news there is with flimsy whimsy.
Plus, details of how you apply for tickets to join us for our comedy special at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe on Friday 23rd August.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 02 Aug 2013 01:00:00 +01001659http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20130802-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsf1.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b037jn8x26/07/2013Radio 4's forum for comments, queries, criticisms and congratulations.
George Alexander Louis is not yet a week old and already his name is known around the world, thanks in no small part to the BBC's coverage of the royal birth. But was it all a bit too much? Many of you think the BBC went baby mad.
Operation Dropout mobilises as Roger Bolton meets the man who looks into those awkward silences caused by technological failure - the BBC's Technology Controller for Journalism, Andy Bocking.
And while the controller sits on-high, we meet one of those on the front line - senior studio manager Bob Nettles. Feedback spends the day with Bob and puts listeners' audio queries to one of the best pairs of ears in the business.
Also, the emotional power of radio drama. We hear from the listener who was left dumbfounded by Nick Warburton's afternoon drama Irongate.
And we're looking for your questions, comments, and queries about this year's Proms. We'll be talking to the Director of the Proms, Roger Wright, who is also the Controller of BBC Radio 3, in a future edition of Feedback. So do send us your thoughts.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Royal baby - did BBC News go OTT? Meet the Dropout Tsar. And the guardian of radio sound.Radio 4's forum for comments, queries, criticisms and congratulations.
George Alexander Louis is not yet a week old and already his name is known around the world, thanks in no small part to the BBC's coverage of the royal birth. But was it all a bit too much? Many of you think the BBC went baby mad.
Operation Dropout mobilises as Roger Bolton meets the man who looks into those awkward silences caused by technological failure - the BBC's Technology Controller for Journalism, Andy Bocking.
And while the controller sits on-high, we meet one of those on the front line - senior studio manager Bob Nettles. Feedback spends the day with Bob and puts listeners' audio queries to one of the best pairs of ears in the business.
Also, the emotional power of radio drama. We hear from the listener who was left dumbfounded by Nick Warburton's afternoon drama Irongate.
And we're looking for your questions, comments, and queries about this year's Proms. We'll be talking to the Director of the Proms, Roger Wright, who is also the Controller of BBC Radio 3, in a future edition of Feedback. So do send us your thoughts.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 26 Jul 2013 01:00:00 +01001662http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20130726-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsf3.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b03775gj19/07/2013This week the BBC announced that the Today programme is to get a new presenter - a female one. Mishal Husain will join the Today line-up in the Autumn and, along with Sarah Montague, will take the ratio from 1 in 5 female to male presenters, to 2 in 6. Feedback listeners welcome the announcement.
But it's not all jubilation. We hear reaction to the BBC's Annual Report. Some of it made for "grim reading" according to the DG Lord Hall. £5 million spent on three separate inquiries into the Jimmy Savile scandal, as well as £25 million paid out in severance payments, and £98 million lost on the failed Digital Media Initiative.
Roger Bolton speaks to Lord Hennessy and asks whether his new Radio 4 series 'Reflections' is a bit too soft on his political interviewees. We explore the art of the political interview with a man who's met them all.
And as outraged comments about The Archers' Matt and Lilian story that was only broadcast digitally continue to fill our postbag, we ask the boss of Digital Radio UK how easy and widespread digital listening really is.
Finally - Operation Drop-out returns! It's time, once again, to call on the good men and women who so diligently wrote to us last year with their examples of interviews where dropped telephone lines, sub-standard digital connections, and woeful mobiles had disrupted their listening pleasure. Listeners spotted some telephonic trouble in the Today studio this week - but are Today the only culprits? We'll be putting questions to the technology department soon so consider yourself conscripted for the cause.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.A new female Today presenter and sensitive politicians? It's all change in Feedback.This week the BBC announced that the Today programme is to get a new presenter - a female one. Mishal Husain will join the Today line-up in the Autumn and, along with Sarah Montague, will take the ratio from 1 in 5 female to male presenters, to 2 in 6. Feedback listeners welcome the announcement.
But it's not all jubilation. We hear reaction to the BBC's Annual Report. Some of it made for "grim reading" according to the DG Lord Hall. £5 million spent on three separate inquiries into the Jimmy Savile scandal, as well as £25 million paid out in severance payments, and £98 million lost on the failed Digital Media Initiative.
Roger Bolton speaks to Lord Hennessy and asks whether his new Radio 4 series 'Reflections' is a bit too soft on his political interviewees. We explore the art of the political interview with a man who's met them all.
And as outraged comments about The Archers' Matt and Lilian story that was only broadcast digitally continue to fill our postbag, we ask the boss of Digital Radio UK how easy and widespread digital listening really is.
Finally - Operation Drop-out returns! It's time, once again, to call on the good men and women who so diligently wrote to us last year with their examples of interviews where dropped telephone lines, sub-standard digital connections, and woeful mobiles had disrupted their listening pleasure. Listeners spotted some telephonic trouble in the Today studio this week - but are Today the only culprits? We'll be putting questions to the technology department soon so consider yourself conscripted for the cause.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 19 Jul 2013 01:00:00 +01001652http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20130719-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsf6.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b036wg0c12/07/2013Last week Roger Bolton spoke to the acting editor of The Archers, Julie Beckett, about the decision to put the moment of revelation in the Matt and Lilian saga in The Archers' digital-only offshoot Ambridge Extra. After the interview aired we received a deluge of complaints - more than about the coverage of the death and funeral of Baroness Thatcher. Listeners were "incandescent" with rage about both the decision itself and the interview, which many felt offered far from adequate answers.
Given the weight of correspondence, this week Roger puts your frustrations to Jeremy Howe, commissioning editor for drama on Radio 4 and 4 Extra.
And why has the BBC removed a free piece of technology, called Radio Downloader, which allowed listeners to download and keep BBC radio programmes? The BBC has promised to offer radio downloads from 2014. But how much radio will be available and for how long? Roger speaks to Mark Friend, Head of Multi-Platform for Radio.
Is sorry the hardest word? We hear from listeners who were outraged by the comments made by BBC Radio 5 Live presenter John Inverdale about Wimbledon women's champion Marion Bartoli, during the finals coverage. But many felt his on-air apology the following day was not enough.
We like to encourage creativity from our listeners - last week a song, before that some petite prose from our Twitter followers, and this week we hear from a listener who vents their spleen not in writing, nor on the telephone, or even on Twitter, but with an inventive mash-up of last week's interview with Julie Beckett.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Is Ambridge Extra stepping on The Archers' toes? And why can't you download all BBC radio?Last week Roger Bolton spoke to the acting editor of The Archers, Julie Beckett, about the decision to put the moment of revelation in the Matt and Lilian saga in The Archers' digital-only offshoot Ambridge Extra. After the interview aired we received a deluge of complaints - more than about the coverage of the death and funeral of Baroness Thatcher. Listeners were "incandescent" with rage about both the decision itself and the interview, which many felt offered far from adequate answers.
Given the weight of correspondence, this week Roger puts your frustrations to Jeremy Howe, commissioning editor for drama on Radio 4 and 4 Extra.
And why has the BBC removed a free piece of technology, called Radio Downloader, which allowed listeners to download and keep BBC radio programmes? The BBC has promised to offer radio downloads from 2014. But how much radio will be available and for how long? Roger speaks to Mark Friend, Head of Multi-Platform for Radio.
Is sorry the hardest word? We hear from listeners who were outraged by the comments made by BBC Radio 5 Live presenter John Inverdale about Wimbledon women's champion Marion Bartoli, during the finals coverage. But many felt his on-air apology the following day was not enough.
We like to encourage creativity from our listeners - last week a song, before that some petite prose from our Twitter followers, and this week we hear from a listener who vents their spleen not in writing, nor on the telephone, or even on Twitter, but with an inventive mash-up of last week's interview with Julie Beckett.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 12 Jul 2013 01:00:00 +01001656http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20130712-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsf9.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b036l8xg05/07/2013Is the BBC impartial? What does impartiality really mean? Questions posed in the latest review by the BBC Trust. The Breadth of Opinion report is part of the Trust's rolling programme of impartiality reviews and looks at how the BBC covers immigration, Europe, and religion - three areas listeners regularly write to Feedback about. We speak to the review's author, Stuart Prebble, to find out whether the BBC is living up to its impartial reputation.
Also, the acting editor of The Archers, Julie Beckett, is back in the Feedback hotseat. Roger Bolton asks her why a major Archers plot revelation was only heard in the new series of Ambridge Extra, which began this week on the digital station Radio 4 Extra. Some Archers devotees are not happy.
Radio comedy is something that regularly leaves audiences unamused. Perhaps that's why Radio 4 commissioned you, the listener, to pen its latest comedy offering The Show What You Wrote on Thursday nights. Roger speaks to two fledgling comedy writers about what it takes to get the nation laughing.
And it's not only comedy that's divisive. Last week, Recycled Radio producer Miles Warde fought off strong listener criticism about his series, which takes well-known voices from the archive, chops them up, and creates something new. But after that edition of Feedback aired, admirers of the series immediately came to its defence.
One Feedback listener - part-time songwriter Dave Summers - liked Recycled Radio so much that he's dedicated one of his songs to everyone who didn't get it. You can hear 'I Heard it on Radio 4' in this week's Feedback and in full below.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.How impartial is the BBC? And why is Ambridge Extra infuriating Archers fans?Is the BBC impartial? What does impartiality really mean? Questions posed in the latest review by the BBC Trust. The Breadth of Opinion report is part of the Trust's rolling programme of impartiality reviews and looks at how the BBC covers immigration, Europe, and religion - three areas listeners regularly write to Feedback about. We speak to the review's author, Stuart Prebble, to find out whether the BBC is living up to its impartial reputation.
Also, the acting editor of The Archers, Julie Beckett, is back in the Feedback hotseat. Roger Bolton asks her why a major Archers plot revelation was only heard in the new series of Ambridge Extra, which began this week on the digital station Radio 4 Extra. Some Archers devotees are not happy.
Radio comedy is something that regularly leaves audiences unamused. Perhaps that's why Radio 4 commissioned you, the listener, to pen its latest comedy offering The Show What You Wrote on Thursday nights. Roger speaks to two fledgling comedy writers about what it takes to get the nation laughing.
And it's not only comedy that's divisive. Last week, Recycled Radio producer Miles Warde fought off strong listener criticism about his series, which takes well-known voices from the archive, chops them up, and creates something new. But after that edition of Feedback aired, admirers of the series immediately came to its defence.
One Feedback listener - part-time songwriter Dave Summers - liked Recycled Radio so much that he's dedicated one of his songs to everyone who didn't get it. You can hear 'I Heard it on Radio 4' in this week's Feedback and in full below.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 05 Jul 2013 01:00:00 +01001656http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20130705-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsfc.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b0368rf028/06/2013Is any discussion too adult for Radio 4? When the Moral Maze took on the subject of internet pornography, Feedback listeners were diametrically opposed on whether the discussion went too far. Roger Bolton talks to Moral Maze producer Phil Pegum about how and why he chose to tackle the subject, live on air, and when he has to intervene to rein in contributors.
Plus, Jazzer from The Archers and acting Archers editor Julie Beckett discuss the controversial outburst that has been the most talked about Radio 4 event this week.
Also this week: Radio 4's Recycled Radio has proved to be divisive - a type of Marmite radio - loved by many on Twitter but generally loathed by Feedback listeners. Roger puts your feedback to its producer Miles Warde and invites Radio 4 commissioning editor Mohit Bakaya and Wireless Nights producer Laurence Grissell to discuss experimental radio on Radio 4.
Last week the Editor of the BBC Radio Science Unit, Deborah Cohen, gave the reasons for the removal of Material World and its long-serving presenter Quentin Cooper. Many of you thought the reasons were less than satisfactory. We hear from those lamenting the departure of Material World and those who welcome the change.
And, a celebration of the bonkers in this week's Tweet of the Week. Every week we ask our Twitter followers on @BBCR4Feedback to tweet us their reviews of BBC Radio programmes that have caught their ear this week. If you hear something you loved or loathed tweet us your very best poetry and prose reviews and you could win: our gratitude; admiration; and the coveted title of 'Tweet of the Week' during next week's Feedback.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Is any subject taboo for the Moral Maze? And do you like your radio recycled?Is any discussion too adult for Radio 4? When the Moral Maze took on the subject of internet pornography, Feedback listeners were diametrically opposed on whether the discussion went too far. Roger Bolton talks to Moral Maze producer Phil Pegum about how and why he chose to tackle the subject, live on air, and when he has to intervene to rein in contributors.
Plus, Jazzer from The Archers and acting Archers editor Julie Beckett discuss the controversial outburst that has been the most talked about Radio 4 event this week.
Also this week: Radio 4's Recycled Radio has proved to be divisive - a type of Marmite radio - loved by many on Twitter but generally loathed by Feedback listeners. Roger puts your feedback to its producer Miles Warde and invites Radio 4 commissioning editor Mohit Bakaya and Wireless Nights producer Laurence Grissell to discuss experimental radio on Radio 4.
Last week the Editor of the BBC Radio Science Unit, Deborah Cohen, gave the reasons for the removal of Material World and its long-serving presenter Quentin Cooper. Many of you thought the reasons were less than satisfactory. We hear from those lamenting the departure of Material World and those who welcome the change.
And, a celebration of the bonkers in this week's Tweet of the Week. Every week we ask our Twitter followers on @BBCR4Feedback to tweet us their reviews of BBC Radio programmes that have caught their ear this week. If you hear something you loved or loathed tweet us your very best poetry and prose reviews and you could win: our gratitude; admiration; and the coveted title of 'Tweet of the Week' during next week's Feedback.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 28 Jun 2013 01:00:00 +01001655http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20130628-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsff.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b02yqh7f21/06/2013This week Quentin Cooper presented his last edition of Radio 4's long-running science programme Material World. The Editor of BBC Radio Science, Deborah Cohen tells Roger why it was time for a change.
In the wake of our interview with BBC Trustee Richard Ayre about the BBC's loss of £98.2 million, we air your views on the decision to bring in outside investigators at further cost.
There was another story about BBC finances this week. But you might not have heard it. Listeners were surprised that the BBC did not report on revelations that it paid out £28 million of licence-fee payer money in payoffs over the last eight years.
Plus, OFCOM comes down on the side of listeners who complained about the use of a derogatory and discriminatory word during a Today programme interview.
Our reporter Karen Pirie mingles with the crowds at the Royal Cornwall Show to hear how BBC Cornwall interacts with its listeners.
Let sleeping dogs lie -the strange effect that Feedback has on listeners of particularly sensitive hearing.
And the moment you've all been waiting for...the announcement of our Tweet of the Week. We've been asking our loyal twitter followers on @BBCR4Feedback to tweet us their reviews of BBC Radio programmes that have caught their ear this week. If you hear something you loved or loathed tweet us your very best poetry and prose reviews and you could win: our gratitude; admiration; and the coveted title of 'Tweet of the Week' during next week's Feedback.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Goodbye Quentin Cooper - changes to Radio 4 science. Plus, OFCOM rulings and BBC losses.This week Quentin Cooper presented his last edition of Radio 4's long-running science programme Material World. The Editor of BBC Radio Science, Deborah Cohen tells Roger why it was time for a change.
In the wake of our interview with BBC Trustee Richard Ayre about the BBC's loss of £98.2 million, we air your views on the decision to bring in outside investigators at further cost.
There was another story about BBC finances this week. But you might not have heard it. Listeners were surprised that the BBC did not report on revelations that it paid out £28 million of licence-fee payer money in payoffs over the last eight years.
Plus, OFCOM comes down on the side of listeners who complained about the use of a derogatory and discriminatory word during a Today programme interview.
Our reporter Karen Pirie mingles with the crowds at the Royal Cornwall Show to hear how BBC Cornwall interacts with its listeners.
Let sleeping dogs lie -the strange effect that Feedback has on listeners of particularly sensitive hearing.
And the moment you've all been waiting for...the announcement of our Tweet of the Week. We've been asking our loyal twitter followers on @BBCR4Feedback to tweet us their reviews of BBC Radio programmes that have caught their ear this week. If you hear something you loved or loathed tweet us your very best poetry and prose reviews and you could win: our gratitude; admiration; and the coveted title of 'Tweet of the Week' during next week's Feedback.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 21 Jun 2013 01:00:00 +01001658http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20130621-1655.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsfh.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b02x9f5914/06/2013It's a year since the BBC introduced an improved complaints procedure. And the BBC Trust, which exists to protect the licence fee payers' interests, has just reported back on the new system. Their public consultation shows that most people now think the system is working well. But some Feedback listeners still think there's room for improvement. Roger Bolton speaks to BBC Trustee Richard Ayre, who is in charge of reviewing the complaints procedure.
And Richard Ayre gives the BBC Trust's view on the BBC's failed Digital Media Initiative (DMI). While we were off-air, the BBC announced that it was scrapping DMI after spending £98 million pounds on the five-year digital archiving project, a sum amounting to almost 700,000 licence fees.
Plus, which programme is sending feline Feedback listeners into a frenzy? Roger speaks to renowned wildlife sound recordist Chris Watson about this pressing issue.
And could you be our Tweet of the Week? We know you're the best radio reviewers around so we'd like you to tweet us on @bbcr4feedback with your most poetic, heartfelt, heated, and inventive reviews of BBC Radio, programmes and policies in 140 characters. If yours is selected as a Tweet of the Week you will win.absolutely nothing, except the undoubted admiration of other listeners, and our undying gratitude of course.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.How easy is it to complain to the BBC? Your verdict on the revamped complaints system.It's a year since the BBC introduced an improved complaints procedure. And the BBC Trust, which exists to protect the licence fee payers' interests, has just reported back on the new system. Their public consultation shows that most people now think the system is working well. But some Feedback listeners still think there's room for improvement. Roger Bolton speaks to BBC Trustee Richard Ayre, who is in charge of reviewing the complaints procedure.
And Richard Ayre gives the BBC Trust's view on the BBC's failed Digital Media Initiative (DMI). While we were off-air, the BBC announced that it was scrapping DMI after spending £98 million pounds on the five-year digital archiving project, a sum amounting to almost 700,000 licence fees.
Plus, which programme is sending feline Feedback listeners into a frenzy? Roger speaks to renowned wildlife sound recordist Chris Watson about this pressing issue.
And could you be our Tweet of the Week? We know you're the best radio reviewers around so we'd like you to tweet us on @bbcr4feedback with your most poetic, heartfelt, heated, and inventive reviews of BBC Radio, programmes and policies in 140 characters. If yours is selected as a Tweet of the Week you will win.absolutely nothing, except the undoubted admiration of other listeners, and our undying gratitude of course.
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 14 Jun 2013 01:00:00 +01001656http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20130614-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsfk.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b02qt7w626/04/2013In the last of the current series of Feedback, Roger Bolton is joined by Gwyneth Williams, the Controller of Radio 4. She responds to listener questions on topics ranging from the coverage of Baroness Thatcher's funeral to Paul and Lillian's love affair in The Archers.
Earlier this week the Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne, was interviewed by John Humphrys about UK borrowing figures - but the interview took a personal turn at the end when Mr Osborne was quizzed on his tears during Margaret Thatcher's funeral. We hear the views of listeners who were unimpressed by the line of questioning.
Also, are standards of grammar and pronunciation slipping at Radio 4? Many think so. But what will the Controller make of the comments?
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Gwyneth Williams, the Controller of Radio 4, answers listener questions.In the last of the current series of Feedback, Roger Bolton is joined by Gwyneth Williams, the Controller of Radio 4. She responds to listener questions on topics ranging from the coverage of Baroness Thatcher's funeral to Paul and Lillian's love affair in The Archers.
Earlier this week the Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne, was interviewed by John Humphrys about UK borrowing figures - but the interview took a personal turn at the end when Mr Osborne was quizzed on his tears during Margaret Thatcher's funeral. We hear the views of listeners who were unimpressed by the line of questioning.
Also, are standards of grammar and pronunciation slipping at Radio 4? Many think so. But what will the Controller make of the comments?
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 26 Apr 2013 01:00:00 +01001654http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20130426-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsfm.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01s0sm519/04/2013The measles outbreak in South Wales has been near the top of the national news agenda for weeks. Time was that, whenever the MMR jab was mentioned, so too was the alleged connection to autism. Now, BBC reports state baldly that any suggested link has been "totally discredited". Are they right to be so categoric? Roger discusses the issue with the BBC's Medical Correspondent Fergus Walsh.
What makes for a good "quizzer"? We go behind the scenes with Rufus Stilgoe as he prepares for his first appearance on Radio 4's Counterpoint.
Local radio listeners upset by their treasured evening shows being replaced by an All England Show go head-to-head with David Holdsworth, the BBC's Controller of English Regions.
And we're looking for your questions for Gwyneth Williams, the Controller of Radio 4. We'll be talking to Gwyneth in a week's time, so be sure to send us your questions as soon as possible. Some listeners will even be able to put their points to the Controller directly.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Roger Bolton discusses health scares with the BBC's Fergus Walsh.The measles outbreak in South Wales has been near the top of the national news agenda for weeks. Time was that, whenever the MMR jab was mentioned, so too was the alleged connection to autism. Now, BBC reports state baldly that any suggested link has been "totally discredited". Are they right to be so categoric? Roger discusses the issue with the BBC's Medical Correspondent Fergus Walsh.
What makes for a good "quizzer"? We go behind the scenes with Rufus Stilgoe as he prepares for his first appearance on Radio 4's Counterpoint.
Local radio listeners upset by their treasured evening shows being replaced by an All England Show go head-to-head with David Holdsworth, the BBC's Controller of English Regions.
And we're looking for your questions for Gwyneth Williams, the Controller of Radio 4. We'll be talking to Gwyneth in a week's time, so be sure to send us your questions as soon as possible. Some listeners will even be able to put their points to the Controller directly.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 19 Apr 2013 01:00:00 +01001664http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20130419-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsfp.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01rw8y212/04/2013Over the top eulogising or overly critical? In this week's Feedback, listeners are divided over the BBC's coverage of the death of Margaret Thatcher. We talk to the Head of the BBC Newsroom, Mary Hockaday.
And do you need to know what's on BBC One when you're listening to Radio 4? We put your frustrations about the latest high-profile cross-TV and radio campaigns - BBC One's The Village and Radio 4's Front Row - to the Director of Marketing and Audiences for BBC Radio, Neil Caldicott.
Following our discussion last week about whether Radio 4 could and should do more to attract new, younger listeners, we hear some surprising reactions from youthful fans of the network.
Listener Rob Johnston gives us an English lesson.
And we're looking for your questions for Gwyneth Williams, the Controller of Radio 4. We'll be talking to Gwyneth in a week's time so be sure to send us your questions. Some listeners will even be able to put their points to the Controller directly.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Did Radio 4 news go OTT on the death of Baroness Thatcher? And why trail TV on Radio 4?Over the top eulogising or overly critical? In this week's Feedback, listeners are divided over the BBC's coverage of the death of Margaret Thatcher. We talk to the Head of the BBC Newsroom, Mary Hockaday.
And do you need to know what's on BBC One when you're listening to Radio 4? We put your frustrations about the latest high-profile cross-TV and radio campaigns - BBC One's The Village and Radio 4's Front Row - to the Director of Marketing and Audiences for BBC Radio, Neil Caldicott.
Following our discussion last week about whether Radio 4 could and should do more to attract new, younger listeners, we hear some surprising reactions from youthful fans of the network.
Listener Rob Johnston gives us an English lesson.
And we're looking for your questions for Gwyneth Williams, the Controller of Radio 4. We'll be talking to Gwyneth in a week's time so be sure to send us your questions. Some listeners will even be able to put their points to the Controller directly.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producer: Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 12 Apr 2013 01:00:00 +01001656http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20130412-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsfr.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01rrcs905/04/2013Does Radio 4 need to replenish its audience with an injection of young blood? Roger talks to the station's Network Manager Denis Nowlan about attracting new audiences and gets the views of age-aware Feedback listeners.
And for many concert goers, the most taxing decision during the interval is whether to have a G&T or a glass of wine. But for Radio 3 producers, there's a tricky balance to be struck between entertaining the audience in the stalls and the listeners at home. We talk to Radio 3's Head of Speech Matthew Dodd and hear your suggestions for how to keep the interval interesting.
Also - the case of the disappearing drama. The scheduling of the lavish adaptation of Neil Gaiman's Neverwhere across Radio 4 and then the digital-only station 4Extra drew criticism from some Feedback listeners when the series aired in March. Nevermind, many were content to access the drama online having seen that it would be available for over a year. But when they settled down to listen, Neverwhere was nowhere to be found. Feedback investigates.
And we hear your views on the first interview with the new BBC Director General, Tony Hall, who went into the Today studio to talk to John Humphrys. Many felt it wasn't exactly a warm welcome.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Is Radio 4 an ageless beauty? And why was fantasy drama Neverwhere nowhere to be found?Does Radio 4 need to replenish its audience with an injection of young blood? Roger talks to the station's Network Manager Denis Nowlan about attracting new audiences and gets the views of age-aware Feedback listeners.
And for many concert goers, the most taxing decision during the interval is whether to have a G&T or a glass of wine. But for Radio 3 producers, there's a tricky balance to be struck between entertaining the audience in the stalls and the listeners at home. We talk to Radio 3's Head of Speech Matthew Dodd and hear your suggestions for how to keep the interval interesting.
Also - the case of the disappearing drama. The scheduling of the lavish adaptation of Neil Gaiman's Neverwhere across Radio 4 and then the digital-only station 4Extra drew criticism from some Feedback listeners when the series aired in March. Nevermind, many were content to access the drama online having seen that it would be available for over a year. But when they settled down to listen, Neverwhere was nowhere to be found. Feedback investigates.
And we hear your views on the first interview with the new BBC Director General, Tony Hall, who went into the Today studio to talk to John Humphrys. Many felt it wasn't exactly a warm welcome.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers Will Yates
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 05 Apr 2013 01:00:00 +01001650http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20130405-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsft.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01rlsvs29/03/2013Confusion, frustration, abdication and revolution in this week's Feedback.
Vanessa Whitburn the longest-serving editor of The Archers is leaving after 22 years. She tells Roger about bullying from listeners, hints at plans for the Ambridge murder that never was and confesses that she often keeps quiet about her job for fear of being hijacked at social events.
Also this week, Radio 4 listeners have been treated to a series of five "playful and surprising audio interventions" - three-minute creations by contemporary artists. More like "baffling" and "bizarre" say many listeners. Tony Phillips the man who commissioned the works, explains the thinking behind them.
Is The Bottom Line too focussed on fat cats? In these times of austerity is there enough room on Radio 4 for the voice of rest of the workers? The programme's presenter Evan Davis takes it on the chin.
And why did Radio 4 ruin the afternoon of so many Formula 1 fans?
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Katherine Godfrey
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio.Confusion, frustration, abdication and revolution in this week's Feedback.Confusion, frustration, abdication and revolution in this week's Feedback.
Vanessa Whitburn the longest-serving editor of The Archers is leaving after 22 years. She tells Roger about bullying from listeners, hints at plans for the Ambridge murder that never was and confesses that she often keeps quiet about her job for fear of being hijacked at social events.
Also this week, Radio 4 listeners have been treated to a series of five "playful and surprising audio interventions" - three-minute creations by contemporary artists. More like "baffling" and "bizarre" say many listeners. Tony Phillips the man who commissioned the works, explains the thinking behind them.
Is The Bottom Line too focussed on fat cats? In these times of austerity is there enough room on Radio 4 for the voice of rest of the workers? The programme's presenter Evan Davis takes it on the chin.
And why did Radio 4 ruin the afternoon of so many Formula 1 fans?
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Katherine Godfrey
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio.Fri, 29 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +00001664http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20130402-1011.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsfw.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01rgm2y22/03/2013Do BBC reporters know their Higgs boson from their Bunsen burner? Many of you think BBC science reporting is woefully inaccurate. Roger Bolton talks to David Shukman, a year into his role as the BBC Science Editor, to find out what steps the BBC is taking to equip reporters with scientific knowhow.
Last week the Crown Prosecution Service published its first ever study into false allegations of rape and domestic violence, which said that such claims are a very small percentage of the overall figure. So why did Newsbeat major on the victims of false claims? Roger talks to Newsbeat presenter Chris Smith.
And Radio 2 presenter Stuart Maconie takes us inside the People's Songs, Radio 2's social history of post-war Britain told through 50 pop records, largely determined by listeners. We meet some of the listeners whose stories of love, lust, and life made the run-down.
Also, how can a ten-year-old know what it's like to be eighty? Well, the young actors in a new Radio 3 drama, called The Startling Truths of Old World Sparrows, were very convincing according to many listeners who wrote to Feedback to say how moved they were. The play took the testimony of three octogenarians and used child actors to voice their thoughts. Roger speaks to Fiona Evans, its writer, to find out more about this ground breaking approach.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Katherine Godfrey
Feedback is a Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.How good is BBC science reporting? Plus complaints about a Radio 1 Newsbeat report.Do BBC reporters know their Higgs boson from their Bunsen burner? Many of you think BBC science reporting is woefully inaccurate. Roger Bolton talks to David Shukman, a year into his role as the BBC Science Editor, to find out what steps the BBC is taking to equip reporters with scientific knowhow.
Last week the Crown Prosecution Service published its first ever study into false allegations of rape and domestic violence, which said that such claims are a very small percentage of the overall figure. So why did Newsbeat major on the victims of false claims? Roger talks to Newsbeat presenter Chris Smith.
And Radio 2 presenter Stuart Maconie takes us inside the People's Songs, Radio 2's social history of post-war Britain told through 50 pop records, largely determined by listeners. We meet some of the listeners whose stories of love, lust, and life made the run-down.
Also, how can a ten-year-old know what it's like to be eighty? Well, the young actors in a new Radio 3 drama, called The Startling Truths of Old World Sparrows, were very convincing according to many listeners who wrote to Feedback to say how moved they were. The play took the testimony of three octogenarians and used child actors to voice their thoughts. Roger speaks to Fiona Evans, its writer, to find out more about this ground breaking approach.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Katherine Godfrey
Feedback is a Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +00001662http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20130322-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsfy.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01r9wcz15/03/2013This week in Feedback, we ask when music should be censored by the BBC. After a listener spotted that Oliver's Army by Elvis Costello had the 'n' word cut out abruptly during a 6Music show, we decided to look into how and why music is edited for offensive language. Roger Bolton visits Radio 1 and 1Xtra to meet DJ Trevor Nelson and Head of Music George Ergatoudis. George explains how they fulfil listener demand for the more controversial hip hop, rap, and pop songs, without offending the audience. And DJ legend Mike Read weighs in on the debate.
And are analogue listeners missing out on the best of new drama on BBC radio? This weekend the star-studded adaptation of Neil Gaiman's Neverwhere finally arrives on Radio 4 and 4 Extra amid much excitement. But its scheduling has raised some eyebrows from Feedback listeners. Neverwhere begins on Saturday on Radio 4 but episodes two to six will only be available on the digital station Radio 4 Extra. We asked Tony Pilgrim, Head of Planning and Scheduling for Radio 4 and 4 Extra, to explain why.
Also, how should the Today programme cover mental health issues? After a recent item about new findings from the human genome project, which suggested a genetic component to some mental illnesses, we heard from listeners who felt the report needed more balance.
And you come to comedian Jeremy Hardy's defence.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Katherine Godfrey
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.When is censoring music appropriate? And are analogue listeners missing out on new drama?This week in Feedback, we ask when music should be censored by the BBC. After a listener spotted that Oliver's Army by Elvis Costello had the 'n' word cut out abruptly during a 6Music show, we decided to look into how and why music is edited for offensive language. Roger Bolton visits Radio 1 and 1Xtra to meet DJ Trevor Nelson and Head of Music George Ergatoudis. George explains how they fulfil listener demand for the more controversial hip hop, rap, and pop songs, without offending the audience. And DJ legend Mike Read weighs in on the debate.
And are analogue listeners missing out on the best of new drama on BBC radio? This weekend the star-studded adaptation of Neil Gaiman's Neverwhere finally arrives on Radio 4 and 4 Extra amid much excitement. But its scheduling has raised some eyebrows from Feedback listeners. Neverwhere begins on Saturday on Radio 4 but episodes two to six will only be available on the digital station Radio 4 Extra. We asked Tony Pilgrim, Head of Planning and Scheduling for Radio 4 and 4 Extra, to explain why.
Also, how should the Today programme cover mental health issues? After a recent item about new findings from the human genome project, which suggested a genetic component to some mental illnesses, we heard from listeners who felt the report needed more balance.
And you come to comedian Jeremy Hardy's defence.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Katherine Godfrey
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 15 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +00001663http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20130315-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsg0.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01r5r1108/03/2013In Feedback this week, you ask: where are all the right-wing comedians? Left-wing comic Jeremy Hardy returned to airwaves last week with his series of lectures 'Jeremy Hardy Speaks to the Nation'. Never one to be shy about his political views, Jeremy had many of you laughing but others felt the joke just wasn't funny anymore and called for balance on the network. Roger puts your points to Caroline Raphael, commissioning editor for Radio 4 Comedy, and asks her whether she is actively looking for right-wing comics.
And what's it like to report for the Today programme for the first time? Last week, Sally Marlow, an academic researcher from King's College London, had her first report on Today. Sally was one of 30 'expert women' who took part in a BBC Academy Training Day in January, which sought to encourage more women experts for TV and radio in areas such as science, engineering, business and politics. We asked Sally and her Today producer to fill us in on the process and find out whether the training day helped.
Also, how much attention do you pay to sound effects in dramas? We hear from listeners who think they've spotted mistakes and programme makers discuss the role of realism in drama.
And listeners applaud Libby Purves, who narrated the Afternoon Drama The Silence at the Song's End, based on the writing of her son Nicholas Heiney,
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Where are Radio 4's right-wing comics? And how accurate are radio dramas?In Feedback this week, you ask: where are all the right-wing comedians? Left-wing comic Jeremy Hardy returned to airwaves last week with his series of lectures 'Jeremy Hardy Speaks to the Nation'. Never one to be shy about his political views, Jeremy had many of you laughing but others felt the joke just wasn't funny anymore and called for balance on the network. Roger puts your points to Caroline Raphael, commissioning editor for Radio 4 Comedy, and asks her whether she is actively looking for right-wing comics.
And what's it like to report for the Today programme for the first time? Last week, Sally Marlow, an academic researcher from King's College London, had her first report on Today. Sally was one of 30 'expert women' who took part in a BBC Academy Training Day in January, which sought to encourage more women experts for TV and radio in areas such as science, engineering, business and politics. We asked Sally and her Today producer to fill us in on the process and find out whether the training day helped.
Also, how much attention do you pay to sound effects in dramas? We hear from listeners who think they've spotted mistakes and programme makers discuss the role of realism in drama.
And listeners applaud Libby Purves, who narrated the Afternoon Drama The Silence at the Song's End, based on the writing of her son Nicholas Heiney,
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 08 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +00001666http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20130308-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsg2.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01r14tn01/03/2013This week in Feedback, we ask whether listeners should be warned about strong language before it is broadcast. Many of you have written to us with your views on potentially offensive language, some in support of the realism swearing can provide, others saying there is no place for it on the wireless. But when Radio 4's Six o'clock news chose to broadcast a racially abusive term, it prompted you to ask why some programmes carry warnings ahead of transmission when others don't, and whether it is acceptable to remove a factual component of a news report. We took your questions to Richard Clark, editor of the Radio Newsroom, to hear how he makes these difficult decisions.
Also this week, could you make it onto the Radio 4 quiz Brain of Britain? When Barry Simmons, a star of BBC 2's Eggheads quiz, appeared on Brain of Britain, many of you questioned why someone who might be termed a 'professional quizzer' was allowed to appear on the long-running quiz. We asked Brain of Britain producer Paul Bajoria to explain how the contestants are chosen.
And how would you feel about starring in a new Radio 4 comedy? Well, if you were in the audience for late-night programme The Guns of Adam Riches, you might find yourself appearing in one of Adam's sketches which rely on audience participation. But how does experimental comedy establish itself amongst stalwarts such as Just a Minute or the News Quiz? To find out, Roger took two Feedback listeners along to meet Adam Riches and comedy producer Simon Mayhew-Archer.
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Language warnings - patronising or vital? And do new Radio 4 comedies get you laughing?This week in Feedback, we ask whether listeners should be warned about strong language before it is broadcast. Many of you have written to us with your views on potentially offensive language, some in support of the realism swearing can provide, others saying there is no place for it on the wireless. But when Radio 4's Six o'clock news chose to broadcast a racially abusive term, it prompted you to ask why some programmes carry warnings ahead of transmission when others don't, and whether it is acceptable to remove a factual component of a news report. We took your questions to Richard Clark, editor of the Radio Newsroom, to hear how he makes these difficult decisions.
Also this week, could you make it onto the Radio 4 quiz Brain of Britain? When Barry Simmons, a star of BBC 2's Eggheads quiz, appeared on Brain of Britain, many of you questioned why someone who might be termed a 'professional quizzer' was allowed to appear on the long-running quiz. We asked Brain of Britain producer Paul Bajoria to explain how the contestants are chosen.
And how would you feel about starring in a new Radio 4 comedy? Well, if you were in the audience for late-night programme The Guns of Adam Riches, you might find yourself appearing in one of Adam's sketches which rely on audience participation. But how does experimental comedy establish itself amongst stalwarts such as Just a Minute or the News Quiz? To find out, Roger took two Feedback listeners along to meet Adam Riches and comedy producer Simon Mayhew-Archer.
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 01 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +00001662http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20130301-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsg4.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01qwk3q22/02/2013Scaremongering or top notch investigative journalism? We hear your views on the BBC's horsemeat coverage. Roger Bolton asks Sheila Dillon, food journalist and presenter of BBC Radio 4's Food Programme, and Jeremy Hayes, the editor of Farming Today and the Food Programme to address your questions and finds out about their approach to covering this complex story.
Also in this week's Feedback, is it ok to make jokes about Jimmy Savile on the BBC anymore, whether they are new jokes or from the BBC archives? Last weekend, BBC Radio 4 Extra aired an impression of Jimmy Savile from the 1980s in an archive programme - twice. We find out how this happened and ask David Jordan, the BBC's Director of Editorial Policy and Standards, does the BBC censor the past?
7 million of us wake up to it on a weekly basis, so when the Today programme failed to appear last Monday, it's no wonder many Feedback listeners were thrown off kilter. As a result of industrial action, BBC Radio 4 replaced its usual news programmes like Today, The World at One and PM, with a selection of programmes including a 45 minute documentary about Pope Benedict XVI, re-runs of Soul Music and Loose Ends. We ask Radio 4's Head of Scheduling, Tony Pilgrim, how do you (temporarily) replace Humphrys and co.?
And when is bad language ok? Well, according to our inbox, when it's in Radio 4's broadcast of V. by Tony Harrison. The swearword-laden poem received its first ever radio broadcast last Monday, 25 years after it caused a media storm when it was first broadcast on Channel 4.
Plus.we have a listener story to warm the cockles.
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Roger Bolton presents audience comment. Can you make jokes about Jimmy Savile on the BBC?Scaremongering or top notch investigative journalism? We hear your views on the BBC's horsemeat coverage. Roger Bolton asks Sheila Dillon, food journalist and presenter of BBC Radio 4's Food Programme, and Jeremy Hayes, the editor of Farming Today and the Food Programme to address your questions and finds out about their approach to covering this complex story.
Also in this week's Feedback, is it ok to make jokes about Jimmy Savile on the BBC anymore, whether they are new jokes or from the BBC archives? Last weekend, BBC Radio 4 Extra aired an impression of Jimmy Savile from the 1980s in an archive programme - twice. We find out how this happened and ask David Jordan, the BBC's Director of Editorial Policy and Standards, does the BBC censor the past?
7 million of us wake up to it on a weekly basis, so when the Today programme failed to appear last Monday, it's no wonder many Feedback listeners were thrown off kilter. As a result of industrial action, BBC Radio 4 replaced its usual news programmes like Today, The World at One and PM, with a selection of programmes including a 45 minute documentary about Pope Benedict XVI, re-runs of Soul Music and Loose Ends. We ask Radio 4's Head of Scheduling, Tony Pilgrim, how do you (temporarily) replace Humphrys and co.?
And when is bad language ok? Well, according to our inbox, when it's in Radio 4's broadcast of V. by Tony Harrison. The swearword-laden poem received its first ever radio broadcast last Monday, 25 years after it caused a media storm when it was first broadcast on Channel 4.
Plus.we have a listener story to warm the cockles.
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 22 Feb 2013 00:00:00 +00001662http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20130222-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsg6.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01qnv9z15/02/2013Radio 4's forum for comments, queries, criticisms and congratulations.
Presented by Roger Bolton, this is the place to air your views on the things you hear on BBC Radio.
This programme's content is entirely directed by you.
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Radio 4's forum for audience comment. Presented by Roger Bolton.Radio 4's forum for comments, queries, criticisms and congratulations.
Presented by Roger Bolton, this is the place to air your views on the things you hear on BBC Radio.
This programme's content is entirely directed by you.
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 15 Feb 2013 00:00:00 +00001663http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20130215-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsg8.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01qkqr708/02/2013Is BBC Radio 4 dancing to the tune of the McCartney family? Many of you wrote to Feedback with complaints after You and Yours welcomed Mary McCartney, daughter of Linda and Sir Paul McCartney, onto the programme to discuss the re-launch of the family's vegetarian food brand - just a few days after Sir Paul joined Sheila Dillon on the Food Programme for an extended interview about his life in food. Was this advertising? Roger speaks to BBC Radio 4's compliance editor Roger Mahony about the rules.
What's the difference between curating a music show and being a DJ? Roger Bolton feels the beat as he puts your questions about specialist music programmes to radio legend Whispering Bob Harris and BBC 6 Music producer Paul Sheehan.
Also this week - is iPlayer radio out of tune with its users? We put your issues about iPlayer, listening online, podcasts and all things on demand to the man in charge, Daniel Danker.
And was the Today programme off the mark when they decided not to broadcast news of a crucial victory by the England Women's cricket team and instead announced that rain had stopped play for the men's team in New Zealand?
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.The art of Whispering Bob, iPlayer queries addressed, and is Radio 4 barmy for McCartney?Is BBC Radio 4 dancing to the tune of the McCartney family? Many of you wrote to Feedback with complaints after You and Yours welcomed Mary McCartney, daughter of Linda and Sir Paul McCartney, onto the programme to discuss the re-launch of the family's vegetarian food brand - just a few days after Sir Paul joined Sheila Dillon on the Food Programme for an extended interview about his life in food. Was this advertising? Roger speaks to BBC Radio 4's compliance editor Roger Mahony about the rules.
What's the difference between curating a music show and being a DJ? Roger Bolton feels the beat as he puts your questions about specialist music programmes to radio legend Whispering Bob Harris and BBC 6 Music producer Paul Sheehan.
Also this week - is iPlayer radio out of tune with its users? We put your issues about iPlayer, listening online, podcasts and all things on demand to the man in charge, Daniel Danker.
And was the Today programme off the mark when they decided not to broadcast news of a crucial victory by the England Women's cricket team and instead announced that rain had stopped play for the men's team in New Zealand?
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 08 Feb 2013 00:00:00 +00001662http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20130208-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsgb.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01qfkw101/02/2013BBC Radio 2 has just announced record audience figures, but is the network satisfying all its listeners? Following changes to Sunday Half Hour, a new presenter for the Folk programme and a clutch of technical difficulties, Roger Bolton puts your concerns to Controller Bob Shennan.
Also, Roger speaks to the Head of the BBC's Newsroom, Mary Hockaday, to get her views on the story that won't go away - the gender imbalance on air. With other major broadcasters signing up to a pledge to give female presenters, correspondents and experts at least 30% of the airtime, we ask if there should be a quota of women in the BBC news.
Aye Aye Cap'n! Plugwatch is back. You've been on the lookout for book plugs across BBC Radio.
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Radio 2 is a ratings hit but its controller faces his harshest critics - you.BBC Radio 2 has just announced record audience figures, but is the network satisfying all its listeners? Following changes to Sunday Half Hour, a new presenter for the Folk programme and a clutch of technical difficulties, Roger Bolton puts your concerns to Controller Bob Shennan.
Also, Roger speaks to the Head of the BBC's Newsroom, Mary Hockaday, to get her views on the story that won't go away - the gender imbalance on air. With other major broadcasters signing up to a pledge to give female presenters, correspondents and experts at least 30% of the airtime, we ask if there should be a quota of women in the BBC news.
Aye Aye Cap'n! Plugwatch is back. You've been on the lookout for book plugs across BBC Radio.
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 01 Feb 2013 00:00:00 +00001649http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20130201-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsgd.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01q97pb25/01/2013Why aren't there more female experts on BBC Radio programmes? Feedback puts your questions and comments to Philip Sellars, Editor of Documentaries at Radio 4, and Deborah Cohen, Editor of the Radio Science Unit. And we report from the BBC Academy's Women Experts Training Day, asking women themselves what they think is holding them back.
Too fast - and you're furious. We hear from listeners who scrambled to buy tickets to CarFest - the festival brainchild of Radio 2's Chris Evans - only to have their efforts thwarted by a technical hitch.
Also, who would you appoint as Radio 4's Writer-in-Residence? We hear from Feedback listeners who are dusting off their dictionaries in anticipation and speak to the BBC World Service's very own Writer-in-Residence, Hamid Ismailov, who has some advice for his future Radio 4 counterpart.
And, we give ourselves a slap on the wrist as we correct our grammatical faux pas.
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Ticket troubles as CarFest launches and what you should expect of a Writer-in-Residence.Why aren't there more female experts on BBC Radio programmes? Feedback puts your questions and comments to Philip Sellars, Editor of Documentaries at Radio 4, and Deborah Cohen, Editor of the Radio Science Unit. And we report from the BBC Academy's Women Experts Training Day, asking women themselves what they think is holding them back.
Too fast - and you're furious. We hear from listeners who scrambled to buy tickets to CarFest - the festival brainchild of Radio 2's Chris Evans - only to have their efforts thwarted by a technical hitch.
Also, who would you appoint as Radio 4's Writer-in-Residence? We hear from Feedback listeners who are dusting off their dictionaries in anticipation and speak to the BBC World Service's very own Writer-in-Residence, Hamid Ismailov, who has some advice for his future Radio 4 counterpart.
And, we give ourselves a slap on the wrist as we correct our grammatical faux pas.
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 25 Jan 2013 00:00:00 +00001656http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20130125-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsgg.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01q03h218/01/2013The BBC is a commercial free zone so why do so many guests on BBC radio shows always seem to be plugging something? One Feedback listener tackles the BBC's Director of Editorial Policy and Standards, David Jordan, on the issue.
And are there enough female voices on the radio? Many of you don't think so. Earlier this week Radio 4 controller Gwyneth Williams acknowledged criticism that certain programmes were skewed overwhelmingly towards men. You highlight some of the worst offenders.
Also, how should BBC Radio deal with discussion of suicide? We hear your feedback on Will Self's controversial A Point of View, "Terminal Thoughts", and discuss it with the editor of the programme.
And Roger travels to the BBC Belfast newsroom as trouble returns to the streets.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producer: Karen Pirie and Katherine Godfrey
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.More women, fewer book plugs - your concerns. Also, responsibility when discussing suicideThe BBC is a commercial free zone so why do so many guests on BBC radio shows always seem to be plugging something? One Feedback listener tackles the BBC's Director of Editorial Policy and Standards, David Jordan, on the issue.
And are there enough female voices on the radio? Many of you don't think so. Earlier this week Radio 4 controller Gwyneth Williams acknowledged criticism that certain programmes were skewed overwhelmingly towards men. You highlight some of the worst offenders.
Also, how should BBC Radio deal with discussion of suicide? We hear your feedback on Will Self's controversial A Point of View, "Terminal Thoughts", and discuss it with the editor of the programme.
And Roger travels to the BBC Belfast newsroom as trouble returns to the streets.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producer: Karen Pirie and Katherine Godfrey
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 18 Jan 2013 00:00:00 +00001652http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20130118-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsgj.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01pw5sl11/01/2013As the New Year chimes beckoned in 2013, many Feedback listeners bemoan the loss of some of the most well-known and well-loved voices on BBC Radio - from presenters to continuity, across the networks. In their place is a swathe of new talent. We welcome in the New Year with your views on the changes.
Also, reporting climate change. This week, many listeners to bulletins in the Today programme contacted Feedback via Twitter and email to say they were dismayed by the reporting of Met Office research on climate change. The Met Office's chief scientist says she also had lots of correspondence after the broadcast.
BBC local radio has lost its regional evening programmes, and they are being replaced by a single broadcast across all stations - the Mark Forrest Show. We bring a dedicated panel of local radio listeners together with one of the programme's developers, to air their views on the new show.
And can local radio save your life? We hear from one listener who says he's still here because of it.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Global warming tosh on Today news, Naked Scientists saved my life, and new voices at R4.As the New Year chimes beckoned in 2013, many Feedback listeners bemoan the loss of some of the most well-known and well-loved voices on BBC Radio - from presenters to continuity, across the networks. In their place is a swathe of new talent. We welcome in the New Year with your views on the changes.
Also, reporting climate change. This week, many listeners to bulletins in the Today programme contacted Feedback via Twitter and email to say they were dismayed by the reporting of Met Office research on climate change. The Met Office's chief scientist says she also had lots of correspondence after the broadcast.
BBC local radio has lost its regional evening programmes, and they are being replaced by a single broadcast across all stations - the Mark Forrest Show. We bring a dedicated panel of local radio listeners together with one of the programme's developers, to air their views on the new show.
And can local radio save your life? We hear from one listener who says he's still here because of it.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 11 Jan 2013 00:00:00 +00001664http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20130111-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsgl.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01ppq0116/11/2012Radio 4's forum for comments, queries, criticisms and congratulations. Presented by Roger Bolton, this is the place to air your views on the things you hear on BBC Radio.
In a week when the BBC's own troubles have filled the schedules, what do you think of the way the Corporation has covered its crisis? Have programmes like Today, Call You and Yours and the Media Show restored your faith in the BBC's journalism or indulged in pointless navel-gazing?
Also, Feedback goes to the Radio Festival in Salford to participate in a session about the relationship between programme makers and their audience. The Festival was packed with industry types - but light on listeners. So we decided to take three listeners along to hear their views on the matter.
And as the BBC marks its 90th anniversary, the Radio 4 comedy The Golden Age satirises the early days of broadcasting. But some listeners felt that the comedy missed the mark and was inappropriate given the BBC's recent troubles.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.How well did the BBC cover its own crisis? And is the BBC's past ripe for satire?Radio 4's forum for comments, queries, criticisms and congratulations. Presented by Roger Bolton, this is the place to air your views on the things you hear on BBC Radio.
In a week when the BBC's own troubles have filled the schedules, what do you think of the way the Corporation has covered its crisis? Have programmes like Today, Call You and Yours and the Media Show restored your faith in the BBC's journalism or indulged in pointless navel-gazing?
Also, Feedback goes to the Radio Festival in Salford to participate in a session about the relationship between programme makers and their audience. The Festival was packed with industry types - but light on listeners. So we decided to take three listeners along to hear their views on the matter.
And as the BBC marks its 90th anniversary, the Radio 4 comedy The Golden Age satirises the early days of broadcasting. But some listeners felt that the comedy missed the mark and was inappropriate given the BBC's recent troubles.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 16 Nov 2012 00:00:00 +00001655http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20121116-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsgn.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01ntlsp09/11/2012Presented by Roger Bolton, this is the place to air your views on the things you hear on BBC Radio.
Can the future of radio really be digital when only 5% of the UK's 34 million vehicles have digital car radios? Earlier this week the Drive 2 Digital conference aimed to spread D-Love about digital on the move, but Feedback listeners still have questions. Roger invites one listener to join Tim Davie, the BBC's Director of Audio and Music, and Ford of Britain's Steve Humbles to find out more about DAB coverage at home and on the move.
And Feedback's postbag has been brimming over with messages of alarm after BBC East announced it would be axing its popular The Naked Scientists programme from January. "Vital for public understanding of science", "making listeners more science literate", were just some of the things said about the programme. But does it fulfil the BBC's remit for local radio? Mick Rawsthorne, Head of Local and Regional Programming for BBC East, doesn't think so.
Finally, where would the BBC be without its listeners? Well it would certainly have some bigger gaps in its archive. No 'Music While You Work' or John Peel's early 'Top Gear' Radio 1 shows. That is, at least, until the Listeners' Archive was launched to mark the Corporation's 90th birthday. Since then, home-grown recordings have been sent into the BBC to help plug the gaps. We meet the team sifting through the gems.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Naked Scientists left out in the cold, and should you buy a digital radio for your car?Presented by Roger Bolton, this is the place to air your views on the things you hear on BBC Radio.
Can the future of radio really be digital when only 5% of the UK's 34 million vehicles have digital car radios? Earlier this week the Drive 2 Digital conference aimed to spread D-Love about digital on the move, but Feedback listeners still have questions. Roger invites one listener to join Tim Davie, the BBC's Director of Audio and Music, and Ford of Britain's Steve Humbles to find out more about DAB coverage at home and on the move.
And Feedback's postbag has been brimming over with messages of alarm after BBC East announced it would be axing its popular The Naked Scientists programme from January. "Vital for public understanding of science", "making listeners more science literate", were just some of the things said about the programme. But does it fulfil the BBC's remit for local radio? Mick Rawsthorne, Head of Local and Regional Programming for BBC East, doesn't think so.
Finally, where would the BBC be without its listeners? Well it would certainly have some bigger gaps in its archive. No 'Music While You Work' or John Peel's early 'Top Gear' Radio 1 shows. That is, at least, until the Listeners' Archive was launched to mark the Corporation's 90th birthday. Since then, home-grown recordings have been sent into the BBC to help plug the gaps. We meet the team sifting through the gems.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 09 Nov 2012 00:00:00 +00001654http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20121109-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsgq.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01nq3lx02/11/2012Radio 4's forum for comments, queries, criticisms and congratulations.
Presented by Roger Bolton, this is the place to air your views on the things you hear on BBC Radio.
This programme's content is entirely directed by you.
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Radio 4's forum for audience comment. Presented by Roger Bolton.Radio 4's forum for comments, queries, criticisms and congratulations.
Presented by Roger Bolton, this is the place to air your views on the things you hear on BBC Radio.
This programme's content is entirely directed by you.
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 02 Nov 2012 00:00:00 +00001649http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20121102-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsgs.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01nlbl826/10/2012Presented by Roger Bolton, this is the place to air your views on the things you hear on BBC Radio.
This programme's content is entirely directed by you.
Are radio programmes about prisoners too sympathetic? In this week's Feedback, Roger meets two programme makers to discuss your questions on the rights and wrongs of radio about prisons.
Rex Bloomstein is the presenter and co-producer of Radio 4's Dying Inside, which looked at the experiences of the growing number of older prisoners, over 40% of whom are men convicted of sexual offences. Rosie Dawson produced The Bishop and the Prisoner following the Rt Rev James Jones, the Church of England's Bishop for Prisons, as he talked to prisoners, politicians and pundits about the prison system.
One listener has tried six times to get a ticket to watch the recording of Just a Minute - and still had no luck. Another was turned away from a recording of the Today programme even though she had a ticket. She compares the BBC to a low-cost airline. We put your concerns about radio recordings to Francesc Rivas, Studio Audience Manager.
As the allegations surrounding Jimmy Savile continue to make the news, we hear your reactions to the way the BBC is covering the story.
Plus the art of reading aloud. After many listeners were underwhelmed by the acclaimed actress Anna Maxwell Martin's rendition of a recent Book of the Week, we ask what makes a good reader?
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Your views on the BBC's Savile coverage, and how do you make a programme in a prison?Presented by Roger Bolton, this is the place to air your views on the things you hear on BBC Radio.
This programme's content is entirely directed by you.
Are radio programmes about prisoners too sympathetic? In this week's Feedback, Roger meets two programme makers to discuss your questions on the rights and wrongs of radio about prisons.
Rex Bloomstein is the presenter and co-producer of Radio 4's Dying Inside, which looked at the experiences of the growing number of older prisoners, over 40% of whom are men convicted of sexual offences. Rosie Dawson produced The Bishop and the Prisoner following the Rt Rev James Jones, the Church of England's Bishop for Prisons, as he talked to prisoners, politicians and pundits about the prison system.
One listener has tried six times to get a ticket to watch the recording of Just a Minute - and still had no luck. Another was turned away from a recording of the Today programme even though she had a ticket. She compares the BBC to a low-cost airline. We put your concerns about radio recordings to Francesc Rivas, Studio Audience Manager.
As the allegations surrounding Jimmy Savile continue to make the news, we hear your reactions to the way the BBC is covering the story.
Plus the art of reading aloud. After many listeners were underwhelmed by the acclaimed actress Anna Maxwell Martin's rendition of a recent Book of the Week, we ask what makes a good reader?
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 26 Oct 2012 01:00:00 +01001666http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20121026-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsgv.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01ngrwy19/10/2012Presented by Roger Bolton, this is the place to air your views on the things you hear on BBC Radio.
This programme's content is entirely directed by you.
If the Prime Minister hasn't given a speech yet, why report on it? When a politician speaks, what does he really mean? In this week's Feedback, Roger Bolton gets a lesson in political code-breaking from chief political correspondent Ben Wright. Ben takes us behind the scenes at BBC Westminster and answers your questions about the dark art of political reporting.
A heartfelt plea from listeners who can only get long wave - get rid of the cricket! Radio 4's Network Manager Denis Nowlan responds to listeners who are fed up with losing their regular Radio 4 schedule when the cricket is on. And if the men's cricket deserves it's long wave spot, why not the women's? We hear from disappointed fans who feel that airing the women's cricket on digital-only stations keeps the sport away from bigger audiences.
Plus the return of the Chicken Forecast. After a brief clip in last week's programme left listeners clamouring for more, we reveal the full story of the cult phenomenon sweeping the nation.
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Political code-breaking at BBC Westminster, and is there is too much cricket on long wave?Presented by Roger Bolton, this is the place to air your views on the things you hear on BBC Radio.
This programme's content is entirely directed by you.
If the Prime Minister hasn't given a speech yet, why report on it? When a politician speaks, what does he really mean? In this week's Feedback, Roger Bolton gets a lesson in political code-breaking from chief political correspondent Ben Wright. Ben takes us behind the scenes at BBC Westminster and answers your questions about the dark art of political reporting.
A heartfelt plea from listeners who can only get long wave - get rid of the cricket! Radio 4's Network Manager Denis Nowlan responds to listeners who are fed up with losing their regular Radio 4 schedule when the cricket is on. And if the men's cricket deserves it's long wave spot, why not the women's? We hear from disappointed fans who feel that airing the women's cricket on digital-only stations keeps the sport away from bigger audiences.
Plus the return of the Chicken Forecast. After a brief clip in last week's programme left listeners clamouring for more, we reveal the full story of the cult phenomenon sweeping the nation.
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 19 Oct 2012 01:00:00 +01001661http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20121019-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsgx.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01nbt9v12/10/2012Radio 4's forum for comments, queries, criticisms and congratulations.
Presented by Roger Bolton, this is the place to air your views on the things you hear on BBC Radio.
This programme's content is entirely directed by you.
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Radio 4's forum for audience comment. Presented by Roger Bolton.Radio 4's forum for comments, queries, criticisms and congratulations.
Presented by Roger Bolton, this is the place to air your views on the things you hear on BBC Radio.
This programme's content is entirely directed by you.
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 12 Oct 2012 01:00:00 +01001418http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20121012-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsgz.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01n6vnp05/10/2012This week saw the end of the Labour Party Conference in Manchester - but not before an interview with Ed Miliband on the Today programme prompted a flurry of angry emails to the Feedback inbox. For many listeners, Evan Davis's technique proved infuriating. Talking over his interviewee, interrupting, grandstanding and answering his own questions, were some of the complaints.
We get a response from the Today programme and also glean insight on the art of the political interview from Radio 4's Week in Westminster presenter, Steve Richards.
Roger Bolton also takes a trip to the BBC's legendary music studios at Maida Vale and is shown the sights and sounds by BBC 6 Music presenter and musician, Cerys Matthews. Along the way he learns about the art of recording live music for radio and what the listeners at home get out of it.
And was it worth flying to New York for an interview? The BBC's disability's affairs correspondent Peter White, presenter of No Triumph, No Tragedy, explains.
Presented by Roger Bolton
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Live music behind-the-scenes at Maida Vale, and are political interviews too combative?This week saw the end of the Labour Party Conference in Manchester - but not before an interview with Ed Miliband on the Today programme prompted a flurry of angry emails to the Feedback inbox. For many listeners, Evan Davis's technique proved infuriating. Talking over his interviewee, interrupting, grandstanding and answering his own questions, were some of the complaints.
We get a response from the Today programme and also glean insight on the art of the political interview from Radio 4's Week in Westminster presenter, Steve Richards.
Roger Bolton also takes a trip to the BBC's legendary music studios at Maida Vale and is shown the sights and sounds by BBC 6 Music presenter and musician, Cerys Matthews. Along the way he learns about the art of recording live music for radio and what the listeners at home get out of it.
And was it worth flying to New York for an interview? The BBC's disability's affairs correspondent Peter White, presenter of No Triumph, No Tragedy, explains.
Presented by Roger Bolton
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 05 Oct 2012 01:00:00 +01001656http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20121005-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsh1.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01n1vlt28/09/2012Is an apology really an apology if you keep repeating the original offence? No it isn't, say many Feedback listeners. After security correspondent Frank Gardner told the Today programme about remarks made to him by the Queen, the BBC has apologised for a breach of confidence. But in this week's Feedback, listeners explain why they feel that by reporting the story, the BBC is in fact repeating the mistake.
Many, if not most listeners find it hard to hear a programme if speech is competing with music. So do producers really appreciate this fact when using music in programmes? Roger Bolton talks to Victoria Shepherd, producer of the series A History of the Future, about the thinking behind her use of music.
And Operation Drop Out is resurrected after a flurry of technical problems plague the networks. Radio 2 explains why programmes disappeared off air for over a minute, and Radio 4 goes one better with multiple glitches plaguing a recent edition of Any Questions. Feedback talks to the plucky announcer who kept the show on the road.
And is Ed Stourton "a plonker"? After mispronouncing the name of the Scottish town Banchory in a recent edition of Profile, many of its inhabitants think he might be. Do you know how to pronounce it?
Presented by Roger Bolton
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Your views on the BBC and the Queen, plus did music enhance The History of the Future?Is an apology really an apology if you keep repeating the original offence? No it isn't, say many Feedback listeners. After security correspondent Frank Gardner told the Today programme about remarks made to him by the Queen, the BBC has apologised for a breach of confidence. But in this week's Feedback, listeners explain why they feel that by reporting the story, the BBC is in fact repeating the mistake.
Many, if not most listeners find it hard to hear a programme if speech is competing with music. So do producers really appreciate this fact when using music in programmes? Roger Bolton talks to Victoria Shepherd, producer of the series A History of the Future, about the thinking behind her use of music.
And Operation Drop Out is resurrected after a flurry of technical problems plague the networks. Radio 2 explains why programmes disappeared off air for over a minute, and Radio 4 goes one better with multiple glitches plaguing a recent edition of Any Questions. Feedback talks to the plucky announcer who kept the show on the road.
And is Ed Stourton "a plonker"? After mispronouncing the name of the Scottish town Banchory in a recent edition of Profile, many of its inhabitants think he might be. Do you know how to pronounce it?
Presented by Roger Bolton
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 28 Sep 2012 01:00:00 +01001663http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20120928-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsh3.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01mx2t621/09/2012Serious news or tabloid tittle-tattle? Some Feedback listeners feel those photos of the Duchess of Cambridge got too much coverage on Radio 4's news output. Roger put your concerns to Mary Hockaday, Head of the BBC Multimedia Newsroom.
And the BBC's new Director General George Entwistle, barely settled behind his desk, finds Feedback knocking at the door with a bulging volume of listener comments and suggestions. Mr Entwistle has already announced that he holds the audience closest to his heart, so listen in George, the Feedback audience has plenty of ideas for you.
And a new era of the Radio 1 Breakfast show begins on Monday when Nick Grimshaw starts his reign. But what makes a great Breakfast Show? Feedback sends out a man well equipped to find out - avid Radio 1 fan, 16 year old Ollie Dean. Speaking to previous hosts Sara Cox and Tony Blackburn and the man brave enough to produce Chris Evans, Dan McGrath, Ollie uncovers some vital advice for new boy Nick.
And finally, have you ever wondered what happened to Tony Blackburn's on-air canine friend Arnold? Tune in to find out.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Was a topless Duchess of Cambridge really news? And listener suggestions for the new DG.Serious news or tabloid tittle-tattle? Some Feedback listeners feel those photos of the Duchess of Cambridge got too much coverage on Radio 4's news output. Roger put your concerns to Mary Hockaday, Head of the BBC Multimedia Newsroom.
And the BBC's new Director General George Entwistle, barely settled behind his desk, finds Feedback knocking at the door with a bulging volume of listener comments and suggestions. Mr Entwistle has already announced that he holds the audience closest to his heart, so listen in George, the Feedback audience has plenty of ideas for you.
And a new era of the Radio 1 Breakfast show begins on Monday when Nick Grimshaw starts his reign. But what makes a great Breakfast Show? Feedback sends out a man well equipped to find out - avid Radio 1 fan, 16 year old Ollie Dean. Speaking to previous hosts Sara Cox and Tony Blackburn and the man brave enough to produce Chris Evans, Dan McGrath, Ollie uncovers some vital advice for new boy Nick.
And finally, have you ever wondered what happened to Tony Blackburn's on-air canine friend Arnold? Tune in to find out.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 21 Sep 2012 01:00:00 +01001661http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20120921-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsh5.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01mqr5d14/09/2012Were the Olympic and Paralympic Games just a crazy summer fling? Or will the enthusiasm of the audience have a lasting impact on the way BBC 5Live covers sport, particularly minority sport? Roger Bolton puts your questions to 5Live controller Adrian Van Klaveren. Roger also meets Breakfast presenter Rachel Burden, editor Scott Solder and 5Live's Head of News Steve Mawhinney to discuss what difference the move to Salford has made to the sound of the programme.
As Chris Moyles leaves the Radio 1 Breakfast Show, listeners want to know how different mornings will be with new presenter Nick Grimshaw at the mic. BBC Radio 1's Director of Programmes, Rhys Hughes, reveals all. And he addresses the pressing question of outrageous bias when it comes to selecting Breakfast presenters: why are so many from the North?
And as this week sees the announcement that BBC Radio 4's Thought for the Day will not be opened up to non-religious speakers, Roger puts listener comments to Aaqil Ahmed, the BBC's Head of Religion and Ethics.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Produced by Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.What's the Olympic legacy for BBC 5Live? Plus the future of Thought for the Day.Were the Olympic and Paralympic Games just a crazy summer fling? Or will the enthusiasm of the audience have a lasting impact on the way BBC 5Live covers sport, particularly minority sport? Roger Bolton puts your questions to 5Live controller Adrian Van Klaveren. Roger also meets Breakfast presenter Rachel Burden, editor Scott Solder and 5Live's Head of News Steve Mawhinney to discuss what difference the move to Salford has made to the sound of the programme.
As Chris Moyles leaves the Radio 1 Breakfast Show, listeners want to know how different mornings will be with new presenter Nick Grimshaw at the mic. BBC Radio 1's Director of Programmes, Rhys Hughes, reveals all. And he addresses the pressing question of outrageous bias when it comes to selecting Breakfast presenters: why are so many from the North?
And as this week sees the announcement that BBC Radio 4's Thought for the Day will not be opened up to non-religious speakers, Roger puts listener comments to Aaqil Ahmed, the BBC's Head of Religion and Ethics.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Produced by Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 14 Sep 2012 01:00:00 +01001658http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20120914-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsh7.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01ml0jf07/09/2012When it comes to music, variety is the spice of life at BBC Radio 2. Its database of tracks carries some 14,000 hits from every decade since the 40s. But it's the network's much vaunted playlist that every band and musician is itching to get on. This list of around 30 songs guarantees regular plays on the BBC's most popular radio station. Every week the great and the good of BBC Radio 2 gather for the playlist meeting, and this week Roger gets in on the action. Will it be the end for The Beach Boys? Will rockstars Muse make it on? Or is there a surprise joker in the pack? Feedback finds out.
Roger will also talk to Radio 2's Head of Music, Jeff Smith, to discover just how the playlist is put together - and finds out what makes the ultimate Radio 2 song.
And listeners respond to Radio 4's Chain Reaction, the series in which public figures choose who they want to interview, with their subject, in turn, turning interviewer. Too chummy? Or entertaining, unguarded and revealing discussions? Roger talks to the programme's producers, and to interviewee, turned interviewer - Caitlin Moran (warning some answers may include Bernie Clifton and his ostrich).
And finally, you say twenty-twelve, I say two-thousand and twelve - let's call the whole thing off. Luckily the BBC Pronunciation Unit is on hand to help Roger out.
Presented by Roger Bolton
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.It's gloves off at the Radio 2 playlist meeting, and just how should you say 2012?When it comes to music, variety is the spice of life at BBC Radio 2. Its database of tracks carries some 14,000 hits from every decade since the 40s. But it's the network's much vaunted playlist that every band and musician is itching to get on. This list of around 30 songs guarantees regular plays on the BBC's most popular radio station. Every week the great and the good of BBC Radio 2 gather for the playlist meeting, and this week Roger gets in on the action. Will it be the end for The Beach Boys? Will rockstars Muse make it on? Or is there a surprise joker in the pack? Feedback finds out.
Roger will also talk to Radio 2's Head of Music, Jeff Smith, to discover just how the playlist is put together - and finds out what makes the ultimate Radio 2 song.
And listeners respond to Radio 4's Chain Reaction, the series in which public figures choose who they want to interview, with their subject, in turn, turning interviewer. Too chummy? Or entertaining, unguarded and revealing discussions? Roger talks to the programme's producers, and to interviewee, turned interviewer - Caitlin Moran (warning some answers may include Bernie Clifton and his ostrich).
And finally, you say twenty-twelve, I say two-thousand and twelve - let's call the whole thing off. Luckily the BBC Pronunciation Unit is on hand to help Roger out.
Presented by Roger Bolton
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 07 Sep 2012 01:00:00 +01001656http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20120907-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsh9.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01mf7zk31/08/2012Is BBC radio suffering from an increase in technical problems? Many listeners think so, and over the last few months have sent in a flood of examples as part of Feedback's Operation Drop Out. Dropped lines, disappearing interviewees and correspondents who sound like Daleks. Roger asks technology controller Peter Coles what is going on. And the Today programme's Foreign Affairs Correspondent Mike Thomson reveals how a dropped line left him AWOL in North Korea.
History was made this week when Radio 4's Woman's Hour and 5Live's Men's Hour got together for a joint programme, broadcast simultaneously on both networks. Was it love across a crowded studio? And what did the listeners make of it? Roger gets the gossip from presenters Jane Garvey and Tim Samuels and editors Alice Feinstein and Gloria Abramoff.
In the hunt for Feedback's very own jingle, we reveal some lyrical, wry and frankly epic listener compositions. Do keep them coming.
And finally, we plan to hand a bound volume of your suggestions to the new Director General George Entwistle on his first day in the job, Monday 17th September. So let us know what you think should be in his in-tray.
Presented by Roger Bolton
Produced by Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.Love at first sight for Woman's Hour and Men's Hour? Plus the Feedback jingle.Is BBC radio suffering from an increase in technical problems? Many listeners think so, and over the last few months have sent in a flood of examples as part of Feedback's Operation Drop Out. Dropped lines, disappearing interviewees and correspondents who sound like Daleks. Roger asks technology controller Peter Coles what is going on. And the Today programme's Foreign Affairs Correspondent Mike Thomson reveals how a dropped line left him AWOL in North Korea.
History was made this week when Radio 4's Woman's Hour and 5Live's Men's Hour got together for a joint programme, broadcast simultaneously on both networks. Was it love across a crowded studio? And what did the listeners make of it? Roger gets the gossip from presenters Jane Garvey and Tim Samuels and editors Alice Feinstein and Gloria Abramoff.
In the hunt for Feedback's very own jingle, we reveal some lyrical, wry and frankly epic listener compositions. Do keep them coming.
And finally, we plan to hand a bound volume of your suggestions to the new Director General George Entwistle on his first day in the job, Monday 17th September. So let us know what you think should be in his in-tray.
Presented by Roger Bolton
Produced by Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 31 Aug 2012 01:00:00 +01001663http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20120831-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppshc.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01m6crq24/08/2012Do you know which Hitchcock film features a scene set at the very top of the statue of Liberty? No? Well, according to several listeners the producers of Radio 4's landmark series The New Elizabethans don't either. Listeners think they have spotted a clutch of factual inaccuracies in the series.
In the first of the new series of Feedback, Roger asks the editor Andrew Smith if they are right. He also discusses the reservations of one listener who actually featured in the series, the New Elizabethan Professor Stuart Hall.
How is the BBC performing in the marathon that is this summer of sport? In the brief lull between the Olympics and Paralympic Games we hear your verdict on the coverage. And why were listeners abroad unable to hear many Radio 4 programmes when the Games began?
Plus the latest instalment of Operation Drop Out, and Feedback wants to have its very own jingle. All musical (and non-musical) styles accepted. Please send us your magnum opuses. Or should that be magna opera?
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Produced by Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.Mistakes in the New Elizabethans series? Plus your verdict on the BBC's Olympics coverage.Do you know which Hitchcock film features a scene set at the very top of the statue of Liberty? No? Well, according to several listeners the producers of Radio 4's landmark series The New Elizabethans don't either. Listeners think they have spotted a clutch of factual inaccuracies in the series.
In the first of the new series of Feedback, Roger asks the editor Andrew Smith if they are right. He also discusses the reservations of one listener who actually featured in the series, the New Elizabethan Professor Stuart Hall.
How is the BBC performing in the marathon that is this summer of sport? In the brief lull between the Olympics and Paralympic Games we hear your verdict on the coverage. And why were listeners abroad unable to hear many Radio 4 programmes when the Games began?
Plus the latest instalment of Operation Drop Out, and Feedback wants to have its very own jingle. All musical (and non-musical) styles accepted. Please send us your magnum opuses. Or should that be magna opera?
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Produced by Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 24 Aug 2012 01:00:00 +01001660http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20120824-1800.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppshf.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01m19nv06/07/2012Are sensational storylines ruining The Archers? Some listeners think familiar characters are acting out of character, simply to crank up the tension. Roger Bolton meets Acting Editor John Yorke and longstanding Archers' writer Keri Davies, to ask at what point does the dramatic veer into the unbelievable?
With only three weeks to go until the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Roger talks to 5 Live's Controller Adrian Van Klaveren about the network's preparations for covering the world's biggest sporting event. He also puts other listener questions to 5 Live's boss. Is the network over-infatuated with Richard Bacon? And is the station alienating its older listeners?
Finally, what is it with the Today programme presenters and telling the time? Why so many slip ups? Feedback visits Justin Webb at the Today studios to investigate and ensure the correct time-telling instruments are present and correct.
This is the last in the current series of Feedback, but the team are still keen to hear from you over the break, so do get in touch.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Too much drama in Ambridge? Plus the Controller of Radio 5 Live warms up for the Olympics.Are sensational storylines ruining The Archers? Some listeners think familiar characters are acting out of character, simply to crank up the tension. Roger Bolton meets Acting Editor John Yorke and longstanding Archers' writer Keri Davies, to ask at what point does the dramatic veer into the unbelievable?
With only three weeks to go until the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Roger talks to 5 Live's Controller Adrian Van Klaveren about the network's preparations for covering the world's biggest sporting event. He also puts other listener questions to 5 Live's boss. Is the network over-infatuated with Richard Bacon? And is the station alienating its older listeners?
Finally, what is it with the Today programme presenters and telling the time? Why so many slip ups? Feedback visits Justin Webb at the Today studios to investigate and ensure the correct time-telling instruments are present and correct.
This is the last in the current series of Feedback, but the team are still keen to hear from you over the break, so do get in touch.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 06 Jul 2012 01:00:00 +01001661http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20120706-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppshh.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01kbm0x29/06/2012The History of an Epic Struggle: last week marked the end of Richard Holloway's 20-part Honest Doubt series, which explored 3,000 years of faith jostling with doubt. It had a profound effect on many Radio 4 listeners. A one-sided attack on Christianity, or an insightful exploration of an often controversial subject? Roger talks to Richard Holloway, and the editor behind the commission, Radio 4's Jane Ellison.
From the spiritual to the virtual, big changes to all 55 of the BBC Radio websites are scheduled for the Autumn, but web users are getting a sneak peak by using a Beta version of the sites - a test version which runs alongside the old sites. Roger uploads a friendly, virtual companion to help him navigate the new websites and discovers what changes will be made in conversation with Mark Friend, controller of BBC Audio and Music Interactive.
And, we follow up on Drop Out Watch. Keen-eared listeners have been in touch with more examples of content cut short by technical glitches. And Roger receives a listener comment about....himself. No one, not even Mr Bolton, can escape the forensic attention of Feedback.
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.What did you think about Radio 4's Honest Doubt series? Plus the new BBC Radio websites.The History of an Epic Struggle: last week marked the end of Richard Holloway's 20-part Honest Doubt series, which explored 3,000 years of faith jostling with doubt. It had a profound effect on many Radio 4 listeners. A one-sided attack on Christianity, or an insightful exploration of an often controversial subject? Roger talks to Richard Holloway, and the editor behind the commission, Radio 4's Jane Ellison.
From the spiritual to the virtual, big changes to all 55 of the BBC Radio websites are scheduled for the Autumn, but web users are getting a sneak peak by using a Beta version of the sites - a test version which runs alongside the old sites. Roger uploads a friendly, virtual companion to help him navigate the new websites and discovers what changes will be made in conversation with Mark Friend, controller of BBC Audio and Music Interactive.
And, we follow up on Drop Out Watch. Keen-eared listeners have been in touch with more examples of content cut short by technical glitches. And Roger receives a listener comment about....himself. No one, not even Mr Bolton, can escape the forensic attention of Feedback.
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 29 Jun 2012 01:00:00 +01001652http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20120629-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppshk.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01k2f8f22/06/2012Does Radio 1 have too many celebrity presenters? Are they too old? And is Chris Moyles going to leave the Breakfast Show? In this week's Feedback two listeners meet controller Ben Cooper and quiz him about his station. Plus, as Radio 1's Hackney Weekend music festival comes to East London, Roger finds out what Radio and 1Xtra are doing to encourage new radio talent. Presenter Chantelle Jones tells him why she thought someone from her background could never be on the radio.
Last weekend Radio 4 had a Bloomfest to mark Bloomsday, celebrating James Joyce's novel with a five and a half hour dramatisation. Was it awesome or awful? We put your reactions to the commissioning editor for drama, Jeremy Howe, and ask him if he plans to give any other novels the one day treatment.
Plus, we launch Drop Out Watch. Many listeners feel the number of programmes dropping off air or correspondents disappearing mid-sentence is increasing. Is it? If so, what's the cause? Send us any examples from any BBC network and we will attempt to diagnose the condition.
Presented by Roger Bolton
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Radio 4's Bloomsday - triumph or blooming inconvenience? Plus, what next for Chris Moyles?Does Radio 1 have too many celebrity presenters? Are they too old? And is Chris Moyles going to leave the Breakfast Show? In this week's Feedback two listeners meet controller Ben Cooper and quiz him about his station. Plus, as Radio 1's Hackney Weekend music festival comes to East London, Roger finds out what Radio and 1Xtra are doing to encourage new radio talent. Presenter Chantelle Jones tells him why she thought someone from her background could never be on the radio.
Last weekend Radio 4 had a Bloomfest to mark Bloomsday, celebrating James Joyce's novel with a five and a half hour dramatisation. Was it awesome or awful? We put your reactions to the commissioning editor for drama, Jeremy Howe, and ask him if he plans to give any other novels the one day treatment.
Plus, we launch Drop Out Watch. Many listeners feel the number of programmes dropping off air or correspondents disappearing mid-sentence is increasing. Is it? If so, what's the cause? Send us any examples from any BBC network and we will attempt to diagnose the condition.
Presented by Roger Bolton
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 24 Jun 2012 01:00:00 +01001660http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20120622-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppshm.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01jxw4s15/06/2012Do you ever sing along to the radio? Many listeners to BBC Radio 3's Choral evensong confess they love to join in with the hymns - but recently they have suddenly found themselves singing solo. The programme has disappeared off the air without warning on no less than four occasions. Roger Bolton asks Christine Morgan, Head of Radio for Religion and Ethics, to explain what went wrong. Could it happen again?
Roger is granted an audience with the golden-throated denizens of Continuity, and puts your questions to announcer Corrie Corfield. What does the job involve? What do they do if something goes wrong? And do they fight to the death for the chance to read the clips on the News Quiz?
And after BBC Radio 4's World at One accidentally misattributed an archive clip to Richard Dimbleby, one sharp-eared listener calls Roger to reveal just who the mystery voice is.
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.The secret life of a continuity announcer, and what went wrong at Choral Evensong?Do you ever sing along to the radio? Many listeners to BBC Radio 3's Choral evensong confess they love to join in with the hymns - but recently they have suddenly found themselves singing solo. The programme has disappeared off the air without warning on no less than four occasions. Roger Bolton asks Christine Morgan, Head of Radio for Religion and Ethics, to explain what went wrong. Could it happen again?
Roger is granted an audience with the golden-throated denizens of Continuity, and puts your questions to announcer Corrie Corfield. What does the job involve? What do they do if something goes wrong? And do they fight to the death for the chance to read the clips on the News Quiz?
And after BBC Radio 4's World at One accidentally misattributed an archive clip to Richard Dimbleby, one sharp-eared listener calls Roger to reveal just who the mystery voice is.
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 17 Jun 2012 01:00:00 +01001656http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20120615-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppshq.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01jrqrm08/06/2012A right Royal let down? In this week's Feedback, listeners get the chance to express their views on the BBC coverage of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. We hear from many of you who got in touch with the Feedback team to comment on the BBC's handling of the event across the main radio networks. Roger Bolton looks for answers from Alan Yentob, Creative Director of the BBC, and speaks to Kevin Marsh, a former Editor of Today, about how coverage of major events like this are planned.
Is Albert Square really coming to Ambridge? John Yorke, controller of BBC drama production, is acting editor of the Archers and his comments about darker storylines have sent ripples through the programme's loyal fan base.
And Roger talks to Tony Phillips, the Commissioning Editor behind BBC Radio 4's landmark series The Listening Project. The idea of capturing the nation in conversation has entranced many - but raised questions about scheduling and presentation.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.A look back at the BBC jubilee coverage, plus is the Archers endangered?A right Royal let down? In this week's Feedback, listeners get the chance to express their views on the BBC coverage of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. We hear from many of you who got in touch with the Feedback team to comment on the BBC's handling of the event across the main radio networks. Roger Bolton looks for answers from Alan Yentob, Creative Director of the BBC, and speaks to Kevin Marsh, a former Editor of Today, about how coverage of major events like this are planned.
Is Albert Square really coming to Ambridge? John Yorke, controller of BBC drama production, is acting editor of the Archers and his comments about darker storylines have sent ripples through the programme's loyal fan base.
And Roger talks to Tony Phillips, the Commissioning Editor behind BBC Radio 4's landmark series The Listening Project. The idea of capturing the nation in conversation has entranced many - but raised questions about scheduling and presentation.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 08 Jun 2012 01:00:00 +01001659http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20120608-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppshs.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01jhnzx01/06/2012Have you ever listened to the radio and felt that what you were hearing was too private for broadcast?
In the first of the new series of Feedback, Roger is joined by a group of programme makers to discuss how they tread the line between gripping radio - and exploitation. Editor Philip Sellars discusses Radio 4's recent series The Trouble with Kane, which follows the treatment of a twelve year old boy arrested for cannabis possession. Editor Louisa Compton talks about Victoria Derbyshire's 5Live broadcast from an abortion clinic. And Foreign Correspondent Mike Thomson describes a harrowing interview with a woman who had suffered greatly at the hands of rebel Rwandan soldiers.
As the BBC's Delivering Quality First plans are finally approved, Feedback listener Andy Boddington asks the managing editor of his local station, BBC Radio Shropshire, what impact the cuts will have.
And we hear a plea for restraint in the face of the Jubilee jamboree.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.Roger Bolton on the future of local radio - are some subjects too personal for broadcast?Have you ever listened to the radio and felt that what you were hearing was too private for broadcast?
In the first of the new series of Feedback, Roger is joined by a group of programme makers to discuss how they tread the line between gripping radio - and exploitation. Editor Philip Sellars discusses Radio 4's recent series The Trouble with Kane, which follows the treatment of a twelve year old boy arrested for cannabis possession. Editor Louisa Compton talks about Victoria Derbyshire's 5Live broadcast from an abortion clinic. And Foreign Correspondent Mike Thomson describes a harrowing interview with a woman who had suffered greatly at the hands of rebel Rwandan soldiers.
As the BBC's Delivering Quality First plans are finally approved, Feedback listener Andy Boddington asks the managing editor of his local station, BBC Radio Shropshire, what impact the cuts will have.
And we hear a plea for restraint in the face of the Jubilee jamboree.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producer: Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 01 Jun 2012 01:00:00 +01001648http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20120601-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppshv.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01j6whc13/04/2012Radio 4's forum for comments, queries, criticisms and congratulations. Presented by Roger Bolton, this is the place to air your views on the things you hear on BBC Radio.
The extension of World at One, changes to Saturday morning programmes and thoughts on the next Director General of the BBC - Gwyneth Williams, the controller of Radio 4 takes listeners' questions and gives her thoughts on what this summer holds for her network.
Making the unmissable... er... missable. Why were so many programmes not available on iPlayer last weekend and why had so many podcasts gone awol? Was everyone on holiday?
Young news junkies form a Feedback Listening Club to pick apart Radio 1's Newsbeat programme.
More tense discussion over use of the historic present on In Our Time, Midweek and The Long View.
Producers: Kate Taylor and Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Radio 4 controller Gwyneth Williams takes listeners' questions. Presented by Roger Bolton.Radio 4's forum for comments, queries, criticisms and congratulations. Presented by Roger Bolton, this is the place to air your views on the things you hear on BBC Radio.
The extension of World at One, changes to Saturday morning programmes and thoughts on the next Director General of the BBC - Gwyneth Williams, the controller of Radio 4 takes listeners' questions and gives her thoughts on what this summer holds for her network.
Making the unmissable... er... missable. Why were so many programmes not available on iPlayer last weekend and why had so many podcasts gone awol? Was everyone on holiday?
Young news junkies form a Feedback Listening Club to pick apart Radio 1's Newsbeat programme.
More tense discussion over use of the historic present on In Our Time, Midweek and The Long View.
Producers: Kate Taylor and Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 13 Apr 2012 01:00:00 +01001663http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20120413-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppshx.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01fjz3906/04/2012Presented by Roger Bolton
Can anything be done to make Radio 4 comedy appeal to a wider audience? The writers of Ed Reardon's Week and North by Northamptonshire, along with Radio 4's comedy commissioning editor, discuss.
The BBC's Complaints system is being overhauled. Find out more about how you can have your say on what needs to be done to make it better.
It's been five months since BBC local radio listeners first complained about the strange clicks, crackle and pops they hear when listening online. So why is it still not fixed? The man in charge tries to explain what's gone wrong.
And the producer of Start the Week explains how she goes about slashing a third of the programme every week for the shortened evening repeat.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Who are Radio 4 comedy writers writing for? Improving the BBC complaints system.Presented by Roger Bolton
Can anything be done to make Radio 4 comedy appeal to a wider audience? The writers of Ed Reardon's Week and North by Northamptonshire, along with Radio 4's comedy commissioning editor, discuss.
The BBC's Complaints system is being overhauled. Find out more about how you can have your say on what needs to be done to make it better.
It's been five months since BBC local radio listeners first complained about the strange clicks, crackle and pops they hear when listening online. So why is it still not fixed? The man in charge tries to explain what's gone wrong.
And the producer of Start the Week explains how she goes about slashing a third of the programme every week for the shortened evening repeat.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 06 Apr 2012 01:00:00 +01001661http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20120410-1030.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsj0.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01f6cgx30/03/2012Last week critics of Radio 4's Count Arthur Strong aired their views - and outraged his many fans. They contacted the programme in droves, demanding satisfaction.
So, in this week's programme the Count's supporters meet his detractors for a fight to the comedy death - well nearly. Which side will win? Is the programme Strong or weak? Roger Bolton officiates and there is a special appearance from Count Arthur himself.
Roger meets Today presenter Justin Webb and 5Live's Victoria Derbyshire to discuss the delicate art of interviewing ordinary people with extraordinary stories to tell.
And is In Our Time killing the past tense? By repeatedly discussing past events in the present tense, worried listeners feel that the programme may permanently mangle the language.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.Fans of Count Arthur Strong's Radio Show fight back. And has R4 killed the past tense?Last week critics of Radio 4's Count Arthur Strong aired their views - and outraged his many fans. They contacted the programme in droves, demanding satisfaction.
So, in this week's programme the Count's supporters meet his detractors for a fight to the comedy death - well nearly. Which side will win? Is the programme Strong or weak? Roger Bolton officiates and there is a special appearance from Count Arthur himself.
Roger meets Today presenter Justin Webb and 5Live's Victoria Derbyshire to discuss the delicate art of interviewing ordinary people with extraordinary stories to tell.
And is In Our Time killing the past tense? By repeatedly discussing past events in the present tense, worried listeners feel that the programme may permanently mangle the language.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 30 Mar 2012 01:00:00 +01001652http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20120330-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsj3.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01dvzgh23/03/2012Who are all those people laughing on Count Arthur Strong's Radio 4 comedy show? Not Feedback listeners who want to know why he's still on air after seven series.
Listeners find all the spin and speculation ahead of Wednesday's budget a turn-off. Can't we just wait until we actually know what the Chancellor is going to say they wonder?
Paddy O'Connell opens the doors of Broadcasting House during a special recording of the programme at the More Than Words Festival in Bristol. But does anyone want to come in?
And are the pauses in The Archers getting longer and what could you fill them with?
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.Listeners find spin and speculation about the budget a turn-off.Who are all those people laughing on Count Arthur Strong's Radio 4 comedy show? Not Feedback listeners who want to know why he's still on air after seven series.
Listeners find all the spin and speculation ahead of Wednesday's budget a turn-off. Can't we just wait until we actually know what the Chancellor is going to say they wonder?
Paddy O'Connell opens the doors of Broadcasting House during a special recording of the programme at the More Than Words Festival in Bristol. But does anyone want to come in?
And are the pauses in The Archers getting longer and what could you fill them with?
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 23 Mar 2012 00:00:00 +00001658http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20120323-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsj5.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01djsfn16/03/2012After The Now Show this week tackled gay marriage, child abuse and the Catholic church some Feedback listeners contacted us with concerns. Roger asks Jane Berthoud, BBC Radio's head of comedy, how her team assesses controversial material and whether in this case the right decisions were made.
Robust and challenging - or simply a slanging match? When presenter Justin Webb first joined the Today programme he said he'd be gentle and let politicians have their say. Then he changed his mind. In this week's programme he joins BBC Radio 5Live's Victoria Derbyshire to discuss the difference between aggression and persistence in the political interview.
And after many Feedback listeners reported hearing the repeated use of "Facades" by composer Philip Glass in an array BBC Radio programmes. we finally hear from the man himself. Ahead of his installment as BBC Radio 3's Composer of the Week, Philip Glass offers his own slightly surreal insight into the popularity of this particular piece.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.The Now Show and the Catholic Church - a joke too far? Plus Philip Glass on Glasswatch.After The Now Show this week tackled gay marriage, child abuse and the Catholic church some Feedback listeners contacted us with concerns. Roger asks Jane Berthoud, BBC Radio's head of comedy, how her team assesses controversial material and whether in this case the right decisions were made.
Robust and challenging - or simply a slanging match? When presenter Justin Webb first joined the Today programme he said he'd be gentle and let politicians have their say. Then he changed his mind. In this week's programme he joins BBC Radio 5Live's Victoria Derbyshire to discuss the difference between aggression and persistence in the political interview.
And after many Feedback listeners reported hearing the repeated use of "Facades" by composer Philip Glass in an array BBC Radio programmes. we finally hear from the man himself. Ahead of his installment as BBC Radio 3's Composer of the Week, Philip Glass offers his own slightly surreal insight into the popularity of this particular piece.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 16 Mar 2012 00:00:00 +00001656http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20120316-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsj9.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01d5qwk09/03/2012This week the news carried tough stories about the situation in Syria, and about the death of 15 year old Kristy Bamu, at the hands of his sister and her partner. Too much information said some listeners, especially as some reports did not include a warning about the graphic content. Several other reports did carry a warning - which other listeners found patronising.
Richard Clark, head of the BBC Radio Newsroom, tells Roger why a warning may or may not be added, and why he feels it can be the right decision to include disturbing detail. He also tackles your objections about the amount of coverage being given to the US presidential primaries.
Is it the end of the road for BBC Radio 2's traffic reports? With websites, apps and local radio providing up to the minute information that's relevant to you wherever you are, some listeners think the end is nigh for traffic on national radio. Sally Boazman, aka Sally Traffic, tells Roger in no uncertain terms why she and her ilk are still providing a vital service.
And over-emotional ranters or real people speaking truth to power? Presenters Steven Nolan and Victoria Derbyshire reveal all about the art of the phone-in.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.Do graphic news reports need a warning? And do we still need Sally Traffic?This week the news carried tough stories about the situation in Syria, and about the death of 15 year old Kristy Bamu, at the hands of his sister and her partner. Too much information said some listeners, especially as some reports did not include a warning about the graphic content. Several other reports did carry a warning - which other listeners found patronising.
Richard Clark, head of the BBC Radio Newsroom, tells Roger why a warning may or may not be added, and why he feels it can be the right decision to include disturbing detail. He also tackles your objections about the amount of coverage being given to the US presidential primaries.
Is it the end of the road for BBC Radio 2's traffic reports? With websites, apps and local radio providing up to the minute information that's relevant to you wherever you are, some listeners think the end is nigh for traffic on national radio. Sally Boazman, aka Sally Traffic, tells Roger in no uncertain terms why she and her ilk are still providing a vital service.
And over-emotional ranters or real people speaking truth to power? Presenters Steven Nolan and Victoria Derbyshire reveal all about the art of the phone-in.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 09 Mar 2012 00:00:00 +00001661http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20120309-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsjc.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01cwwln02/03/2012The fate of BBC local radio is once more under the microscope this week, as independent media consultant John Myers publishes his report on the best way to cut costs and keep quality. He recommends scrapping the plan to share afternoon programmes across regions, and suggests that cutting back on management could save two million pounds. Roger meets David Holdsworth, the controller of English Regions, to find out what this will mean for listeners.
As the BBC World Service turns 80, it has thrown open the doors to its news conference. For the first time the daily meeting where editors discuss the news agenda was broadcast around the world. Feedback went along to find out how much the great and the good consider what the audience wants to hear.
And do you know your Angry Birds from your Grand Theft Auto? On BBC Radio 4 a recent edition of Front Row focused on computer games. About time too said many listeners. So will there be more discussion of the topic in the future? Roger meets editor John Goudie to find out.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.A new take on the future of BBC local radio. And should Radio 4 do more on computer games?The fate of BBC local radio is once more under the microscope this week, as independent media consultant John Myers publishes his report on the best way to cut costs and keep quality. He recommends scrapping the plan to share afternoon programmes across regions, and suggests that cutting back on management could save two million pounds. Roger meets David Holdsworth, the controller of English Regions, to find out what this will mean for listeners.
As the BBC World Service turns 80, it has thrown open the doors to its news conference. For the first time the daily meeting where editors discuss the news agenda was broadcast around the world. Feedback went along to find out how much the great and the good consider what the audience wants to hear.
And do you know your Angry Birds from your Grand Theft Auto? On BBC Radio 4 a recent edition of Front Row focused on computer games. About time too said many listeners. So will there be more discussion of the topic in the future? Roger meets editor John Goudie to find out.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 02 Mar 2012 00:00:00 +00001658http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20120302-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsjf.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01cks4y24/02/2012Radio 4's forum for comments, queries, criticisms and congratulations.
Presented by Roger Bolton, this is the place to air your views on the things you hear on BBC Radio.
This programme's content is entirely directed by you.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Radio 4's forum for audience comment. Presented by Roger Bolton.Radio 4's forum for comments, queries, criticisms and congratulations.
Presented by Roger Bolton, this is the place to air your views on the things you hear on BBC Radio.
This programme's content is entirely directed by you.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 24 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +00001658http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20120224-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsjh.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01c7x4r17/02/2012Did the death of singer Whitney Houston and the acquittal of football manager Harry Redknapp deserve to top the news bulletins? Many listeners feel that important events at home and abroad were shunted aside unjustifiably. In this week's Feedback Roger asks Mary Hockaday, head of the BBC's newsroom, whether the right decisions were made.
During a particularly robust episode of the Moral Maze, many listeners felt debate gave way to a dust-up. Michael Buerk tells Roger how he tries - and sometimes fails - to ensure the discussion generates more light than heat.
Last week teacher Deborah Mole and her student Kevin agreed to listen exclusively to each other's favourite station for a whole week. After a traumatic week of BBC 1Xtra for her and BBC 6Music for him they reveal what the experience has taught them.
Plus by special request there's a soul-stirring valentine's message from velvet-voiced announcer Zeb Soanes ...
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Is football more important than economic crisis? And Michael Buerk on chairing Moral Maze.Did the death of singer Whitney Houston and the acquittal of football manager Harry Redknapp deserve to top the news bulletins? Many listeners feel that important events at home and abroad were shunted aside unjustifiably. In this week's Feedback Roger asks Mary Hockaday, head of the BBC's newsroom, whether the right decisions were made.
During a particularly robust episode of the Moral Maze, many listeners felt debate gave way to a dust-up. Michael Buerk tells Roger how he tries - and sometimes fails - to ensure the discussion generates more light than heat.
Last week teacher Deborah Mole and her student Kevin agreed to listen exclusively to each other's favourite station for a whole week. After a traumatic week of BBC 1Xtra for her and BBC 6Music for him they reveal what the experience has taught them.
Plus by special request there's a soul-stirring valentine's message from velvet-voiced announcer Zeb Soanes ...
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 17 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +00001660http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20120217-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsjl.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01by9ln10/02/2012Have you ever settled down to listen to a programme on iPlayer - only to find that the last two minutes have been chopped off? Or had to wade through several minutes of unrelated content before your chosen programme begins?
In this week's Feedback Roger Bolton asks Andrew Scott, Head of Radio and Music for Future Media, why iPlayer editing is letting listeners down.
There are five months still to go until the Olympics, but have Radio 4 listeners already had enough of sport? Following Clare Balding's series Sport and the British - and her appearance on Midweek - Roger hears from listeners who want to keep the station a sport-free zone.
And the Feedback Listening Club returns, with three listeners gathering to discuss Radio 4's Saturday Live. If you'd like to take part in a Listening Club, please contact the programme.
Plus a new Radioswap begins, as teacher Deborah Mole agrees to swap BBC 6Music for her student Kevin's favourite station, 1Xtra. Tune in next week to find out how they get on.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.Too much sport on Radio 4? Plus the hit and miss nature of iPlayer editing.Have you ever settled down to listen to a programme on iPlayer - only to find that the last two minutes have been chopped off? Or had to wade through several minutes of unrelated content before your chosen programme begins?
In this week's Feedback Roger Bolton asks Andrew Scott, Head of Radio and Music for Future Media, why iPlayer editing is letting listeners down.
There are five months still to go until the Olympics, but have Radio 4 listeners already had enough of sport? Following Clare Balding's series Sport and the British - and her appearance on Midweek - Roger hears from listeners who want to keep the station a sport-free zone.
And the Feedback Listening Club returns, with three listeners gathering to discuss Radio 4's Saturday Live. If you'd like to take part in a Listening Club, please contact the programme.
Plus a new Radioswap begins, as teacher Deborah Mole agrees to swap BBC 6Music for her student Kevin's favourite station, 1Xtra. Tune in next week to find out how they get on.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +00001658http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20120210-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsjn.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01bmq3103/02/2012A clearer focus on news and more coverage of minority sports. That's the order from the BBC Trust, which has just completed its review of 5Live. Do you agree? The recent audience research RAJAR report shows a drop in the station's listening figures. So we find out if listeners think the Trust has got the answer.
Are you experiencing a sense of deja entendu? When it comes to radio dramas, many listeners feel the rate of repeats has increased. Roger asks Jeremy Howe, commissioning editor of Radio 4 drama, if we really have heard it all before.
And while From Our Own Correspondent almost always gets it right, should the correspondent have been reporting on a wedding so soon after an attempted coup? Roger talks to editor Tony Grant about finding the stories behind the headlines.
And a listener wants to apply for the job of Director General of the BBC. She says she'd spend the salary on programmes. What would you do?
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.Your views on the BBC Trust's 5Live review. Plus, are there more drama repeats on Radio 4?A clearer focus on news and more coverage of minority sports. That's the order from the BBC Trust, which has just completed its review of 5Live. Do you agree? The recent audience research RAJAR report shows a drop in the station's listening figures. So we find out if listeners think the Trust has got the answer.
Are you experiencing a sense of deja entendu? When it comes to radio dramas, many listeners feel the rate of repeats has increased. Roger asks Jeremy Howe, commissioning editor of Radio 4 drama, if we really have heard it all before.
And while From Our Own Correspondent almost always gets it right, should the correspondent have been reporting on a wedding so soon after an attempted coup? Roger talks to editor Tony Grant about finding the stories behind the headlines.
And a listener wants to apply for the job of Director General of the BBC. She says she'd spend the salary on programmes. What would you do?
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 03 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +00001656http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20120203-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsjq.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01bbd8v27/01/2012The decision to end Radio 4's Home Planet has dismayed many listeners. The programme has been answering listeners' environmental science questions for the last 10 years. This week two listeners meet commissioning editor Mohit Bakaya to ask - what on earth is going on? They also talk to the newly appointed science editor David Shukman about his plans for science on BBC radio.
And Happy 70th Birthday Desert Island Discs. Executive producer Cathy Drysdale tells Roger how this weekend - each BBC local radio station as well as BBC Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales are running special programmes dedicated to the music choices and personal stories of hundreds of listeners.
We also hear your reactions to news that the BBC Trust has ordered BBC managers to rethink cuts to local radio budgets.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.Listeners take on commissioning editor over Home Planet. Good news for local radio.The decision to end Radio 4's Home Planet has dismayed many listeners. The programme has been answering listeners' environmental science questions for the last 10 years. This week two listeners meet commissioning editor Mohit Bakaya to ask - what on earth is going on? They also talk to the newly appointed science editor David Shukman about his plans for science on BBC radio.
And Happy 70th Birthday Desert Island Discs. Executive producer Cathy Drysdale tells Roger how this weekend - each BBC local radio station as well as BBC Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales are running special programmes dedicated to the music choices and personal stories of hundreds of listeners.
We also hear your reactions to news that the BBC Trust has ordered BBC managers to rethink cuts to local radio budgets.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Kate Taylor
A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 27 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +00001656http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20120127-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsjt.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01b1nkm20/01/2012The Radio 2 breakfast show is normally captained by Chris Evans. But, during a recent absence, Richard Madeley filled the presenter chair instead - and many listeners wish he hadn't. In the first programme of the new series, Roger Bolton talks to Lewis Carnie, head of programmes at Radio 2, about the delicate business of finding suitable stand-in presenters.
After countless tales of woe from listeners trying to contact programmes, Roger issues a challenge to Radio 4's network manager Denis Nowlan. Can he negotiate the website and deliver a listener's message? And will it be read? Feedback, of course, faithfully reads every message, so do send in your experiences, whether of triumph or disaster, of contacting any programme on any BBC station.
And what are your hopes and fears for radio in 2012? Listeners share their aspirations, and presenter Jane Garvey provides a sneak peak of what 2012 will hold for Woman's Hour listeners.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Roger Bolton discusses the delicate business of finding suitable stand-in presenters.The Radio 2 breakfast show is normally captained by Chris Evans. But, during a recent absence, Richard Madeley filled the presenter chair instead - and many listeners wish he hadn't. In the first programme of the new series, Roger Bolton talks to Lewis Carnie, head of programmes at Radio 2, about the delicate business of finding suitable stand-in presenters.
After countless tales of woe from listeners trying to contact programmes, Roger issues a challenge to Radio 4's network manager Denis Nowlan. Can he negotiate the website and deliver a listener's message? And will it be read? Feedback, of course, faithfully reads every message, so do send in your experiences, whether of triumph or disaster, of contacting any programme on any BBC station.
And what are your hopes and fears for radio in 2012? Listeners share their aspirations, and presenter Jane Garvey provides a sneak peak of what 2012 will hold for Woman's Hour listeners.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 20 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +00001657http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20120120-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsjw.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b019h3pr25/11/2011Less than two years ago the BBC Asian Network faced extinction. It was spared, but now its budget is set to be cut by almost half. What will this mean for the station, and for its audience? Listener Ravinder Sondh relies on the Tommy Sandhu breakfast show to get her family out of bed in the morning, so Roger goes behind the scenes to meet Tommy and his team in the studio. Roger also talks to Husain Husaini, the Asian Network's head of programmes, about how the station will manage the cuts.
Are you filling in the Delivering Quality First consultation document? If so you still have plenty of time, the deadline is 21st December 2011. But some listeners feel the document itself isn't delivering much in the way of quality; too dense, too long and too much jargon. Roger enlists the help of Marie Clair of the Plain English Campaign.
And after a Radio 4 news report accidentally declares the speed of light to be many thousand times slower than it really is, Feedback sorts out all this pesky business with neutrinos and relativity once and for all.
Radio 4's forum for comments, queries, criticisms and congratulations. Presented by Roger Bolton, this is the place to air your views on the things you hear on BBC Radio.
This programme's content is entirely directed by you.
Producers: Karen Pirie and Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Roger goes behind the scenes at the Asian Network and puzzles over the DQF jargon.Less than two years ago the BBC Asian Network faced extinction. It was spared, but now its budget is set to be cut by almost half. What will this mean for the station, and for its audience? Listener Ravinder Sondh relies on the Tommy Sandhu breakfast show to get her family out of bed in the morning, so Roger goes behind the scenes to meet Tommy and his team in the studio. Roger also talks to Husain Husaini, the Asian Network's head of programmes, about how the station will manage the cuts.
Are you filling in the Delivering Quality First consultation document? If so you still have plenty of time, the deadline is 21st December 2011. But some listeners feel the document itself isn't delivering much in the way of quality; too dense, too long and too much jargon. Roger enlists the help of Marie Clair of the Plain English Campaign.
And after a Radio 4 news report accidentally declares the speed of light to be many thousand times slower than it really is, Feedback sorts out all this pesky business with neutrinos and relativity once and for all.
Radio 4's forum for comments, queries, criticisms and congratulations. Presented by Roger Bolton, this is the place to air your views on the things you hear on BBC Radio.
This programme's content is entirely directed by you.
Producers: Karen Pirie and Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 25 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +00001655http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20111125-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsjz.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b017clx518/11/2011In her first year in the job, Radio 4 controller Gwyneth Williams has instigated the biggest shake-up of the Radio 4 schedule for more than 10 years. She has cut Americana, commissioned The Life Scientific and most recently extended The World at One by 15 minutes - to the delight of some listeners and the dismay of others.
She has also steered the station through the proposed Delivering Quality First cuts relatively unscathed. In this week's programme Roger asks her to explain her choices, and to reflect on her first year in the hot seat.
And while Radio 4's Remembrance Day coverage is praised, some listeners feel some of the comedy broadcast in the days surrounding Remembrance Day was inappropriate.
And this week's Feedback Listening Club is formed of three tenors from a community choir in Blackburn. They turn their forensic listening abilities to Woman's Hour, and (whisper it) one of them is a man...
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Radio 4 Controller addresses listeners' concerns about schedule changes.In her first year in the job, Radio 4 controller Gwyneth Williams has instigated the biggest shake-up of the Radio 4 schedule for more than 10 years. She has cut Americana, commissioned The Life Scientific and most recently extended The World at One by 15 minutes - to the delight of some listeners and the dismay of others.
She has also steered the station through the proposed Delivering Quality First cuts relatively unscathed. In this week's programme Roger asks her to explain her choices, and to reflect on her first year in the hot seat.
And while Radio 4's Remembrance Day coverage is praised, some listeners feel some of the comedy broadcast in the days surrounding Remembrance Day was inappropriate.
And this week's Feedback Listening Club is formed of three tenors from a community choir in Blackburn. They turn their forensic listening abilities to Woman's Hour, and (whisper it) one of them is a man...
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producers: Karen Pirie and Kate Taylor
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 18 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +00001655http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20111118-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsk1.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01756jk11/11/2011The World at One now has 15 extra minutes to fill, following the shake-up of the afternoon schedule on Radio 4. Some listeners are delighted - others less so. Roger asks Nick Sutton, the programme's editor, what he plans to do with the time and how much investigation he has done into what the audience really wants to hear.
Feedback itself will be staying the same length, but the Friday edition moves to 4:30 in the afternoon.
The BBC Trust has launched a review into the impartiality of the BBC's reporting of the Arab Spring. Alison Hastings, chair of the Trust's Editorial Standards Committee, explains the reasons for the review and the scope of its inquiry.
And a keen-eared listener who is also a ferret fan questions the identity of Eddie Grundy's ferret, Daphne. Judging by the sounds she makes, he accuses her of being... a guinea pig. All will be revealed.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.What's in store for the new, longer World at One? Eddie Grundy's ferret causes concern.The World at One now has 15 extra minutes to fill, following the shake-up of the afternoon schedule on Radio 4. Some listeners are delighted - others less so. Roger asks Nick Sutton, the programme's editor, what he plans to do with the time and how much investigation he has done into what the audience really wants to hear.
Feedback itself will be staying the same length, but the Friday edition moves to 4:30 in the afternoon.
The BBC Trust has launched a review into the impartiality of the BBC's reporting of the Arab Spring. Alison Hastings, chair of the Trust's Editorial Standards Committee, explains the reasons for the review and the scope of its inquiry.
And a keen-eared listener who is also a ferret fan questions the identity of Eddie Grundy's ferret, Daphne. Judging by the sounds she makes, he accuses her of being... a guinea pig. All will be revealed.
Presenter: Roger Bolton
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 11 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +00001661http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20111111-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsk3.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b016x4tf04/11/2011This week Feedback drops into the Radio Academy Radio Festival in Salford. There Radio Shropshire listener Andy Boddington asks David Holdsworth, controller of English Regions, if BBC local radio can really survive the 12 per cent savings it's being asked to make under the Delivering Quality First scheme.
Meanwhile in London, listener John Kennedy leads a protest outside Broadcasting House against the cuts to his beloved BBC London.
Next week sees the start of the new afternoon schedule on Radio 4. As the World At One stretches to 45 minutes and other programmes shift along to make room, Feedback itself will be moving to a new time of 4:30 in the afternoon. Tony Pilgrim, Head of Planning and Scheduling, explains the thinking behind the new schedule.
Plus there's a novel suggestion for how composer Philip Glass's piece Facades could spice up the Archers..
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Can local radio thrive despite the cuts? And what does the new Radio 4 schedule hold?This week Feedback drops into the Radio Academy Radio Festival in Salford. There Radio Shropshire listener Andy Boddington asks David Holdsworth, controller of English Regions, if BBC local radio can really survive the 12 per cent savings it's being asked to make under the Delivering Quality First scheme.
Meanwhile in London, listener John Kennedy leads a protest outside Broadcasting House against the cuts to his beloved BBC London.
Next week sees the start of the new afternoon schedule on Radio 4. As the World At One stretches to 45 minutes and other programmes shift along to make room, Feedback itself will be moving to a new time of 4:30 in the afternoon. Tony Pilgrim, Head of Planning and Scheduling, explains the thinking behind the new schedule.
Plus there's a novel suggestion for how composer Philip Glass's piece Facades could spice up the Archers..
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 04 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +00001655http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20111104-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsk5.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b016lkgg28/10/2011Why were listeners' views on the two biggest news stories of last week not covered in Any Answers? Roger Bolton asks the programme's editor Clare McGinn why calls on the row over the St Paul's protest, school results and downsizing of homes left no room for listeners' views on Gaddafi's death and the proposed EU referendum.
It's the beginning of the end for long wave. Tens of thousands of small-time mariners, who can't afford expensive equipment and currently rely on hearing the Shipping Forecast on long wave, will have to find other ways of checking the weather once the signal is switched off.
Your verdict on Radio 4's new Sunday night schedule. Finnemore fans call for a second series of his Souvenir Programme and mixed reviews for Tonight with Rory Bremner.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Questions about Any Answers, Sunday night comedy, Shipping Forecast and long wave.Why were listeners' views on the two biggest news stories of last week not covered in Any Answers? Roger Bolton asks the programme's editor Clare McGinn why calls on the row over the St Paul's protest, school results and downsizing of homes left no room for listeners' views on Gaddafi's death and the proposed EU referendum.
It's the beginning of the end for long wave. Tens of thousands of small-time mariners, who can't afford expensive equipment and currently rely on hearing the Shipping Forecast on long wave, will have to find other ways of checking the weather once the signal is switched off.
Your verdict on Radio 4's new Sunday night schedule. Finnemore fans call for a second series of his Souvenir Programme and mixed reviews for Tonight with Rory Bremner.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 28 Oct 2011 01:00:00 +01001661http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20111028-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsk7.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01693gz21/10/2011As the BBC's 40 local radio stations confront spending cuts, Roger hears your views about the impact on local democracy and community interaction. Listeners face having to share some programmes with neighbouring stations during off-peak times, and will see specialist evening programmes replaced with one England-wide show. No bad thing, say some of you. But others agree with the listener who described the plan as "destroying quality first".
Roger drops into the offices of The Last Word, Radio 4's obituary programme, to find out how he can ensure his slot on the show (in the fullness of time of course).
And hot on the heels of the Man Booker prize announcement, the contributors to the inaugural Feedback Listening Club cast their expert ears over Open Book. If you'd like more information about taking part in a future Listening Club, please contact the programme.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Listener views on local radio cuts. Roger hears how to secure inclusion on R4's Last Word.As the BBC's 40 local radio stations confront spending cuts, Roger hears your views about the impact on local democracy and community interaction. Listeners face having to share some programmes with neighbouring stations during off-peak times, and will see specialist evening programmes replaced with one England-wide show. No bad thing, say some of you. But others agree with the listener who described the plan as "destroying quality first".
Roger drops into the offices of The Last Word, Radio 4's obituary programme, to find out how he can ensure his slot on the show (in the fullness of time of course).
And hot on the heels of the Man Booker prize announcement, the contributors to the inaugural Feedback Listening Club cast their expert ears over Open Book. If you'd like more information about taking part in a future Listening Club, please contact the programme.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 21 Oct 2011 01:00:00 +01001658http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20111021-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppsk9.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b015zsx214/10/2011Did Radio 4 really get off that lightly in last week's BBC cuts? Roger Bolton talks to Tim Davie, the BBC's head of radio about the true impact of those Delivering Quality First proposals on news programmes in particular.
The BBC has also signalled the death of longwave. Roger asks Denis Nolan, Radio 4's network manager, why alternatives can't be found, and how much will be saved by the axing of this service which is still crucial to so many listeners.
Plus Feedback's Glasswatchers find another example of repeated use of minimalist composer Philip Glass's Facades, and the final instalment of "Strife and Fate" the gripping tale of a Radio 3 controller.
Presented by Roger Bolton, this is the place to air your views on the things you hear on BBC Radio.
This programme's content is entirely directed by you.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.The real story of cuts to Radio 4, the future of longwave and coverage of the Welsh rugby.Did Radio 4 really get off that lightly in last week's BBC cuts? Roger Bolton talks to Tim Davie, the BBC's head of radio about the true impact of those Delivering Quality First proposals on news programmes in particular.
The BBC has also signalled the death of longwave. Roger asks Denis Nolan, Radio 4's network manager, why alternatives can't be found, and how much will be saved by the axing of this service which is still crucial to so many listeners.
Plus Feedback's Glasswatchers find another example of repeated use of minimalist composer Philip Glass's Facades, and the final instalment of "Strife and Fate" the gripping tale of a Radio 3 controller.
Presented by Roger Bolton, this is the place to air your views on the things you hear on BBC Radio.
This programme's content is entirely directed by you.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 14 Oct 2011 01:00:00 +01001658http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20111014-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppskc.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b015pbhl07/10/2011"Inane", "patronising" and "cultural vandalism" are just a few of the comments you have made about the recent changes to the BBC Radio 3 schedule. This week Roger puts your concerns to controller Roger Wright, discussing new programmes including Essential Classics, and listener criticism that breakfast is sounding more like Classic FM.
As the results of the "Delivering Quality First" consultation are finally announced, we'll be finding out what this cost-cutting strategy is going to mean for listeners. Roger will analyse the announcement with Torin Douglas and then discuss it's impact with Lord Patten, chair of the BBC Trust.
And we introduce a brand new feature: the Feedback Listening Club. We are looking for small groups of Feedback listeners to select a BBC radio programme, listen to it, and then get together for a recorded discussion of their thoughts on their chosen programme. First up is 'Open Book'. If you're interested and would like more information, please email feedback@bbc.co.uk
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Controller Roger Wright answers your concerns about Radio 3."Inane", "patronising" and "cultural vandalism" are just a few of the comments you have made about the recent changes to the BBC Radio 3 schedule. This week Roger puts your concerns to controller Roger Wright, discussing new programmes including Essential Classics, and listener criticism that breakfast is sounding more like Classic FM.
As the results of the "Delivering Quality First" consultation are finally announced, we'll be finding out what this cost-cutting strategy is going to mean for listeners. Roger will analyse the announcement with Torin Douglas and then discuss it's impact with Lord Patten, chair of the BBC Trust.
And we introduce a brand new feature: the Feedback Listening Club. We are looking for small groups of Feedback listeners to select a BBC radio programme, listen to it, and then get together for a recorded discussion of their thoughts on their chosen programme. First up is 'Open Book'. If you're interested and would like more information, please email feedback@bbc.co.uk
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 07 Oct 2011 01:00:00 +01001660http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20111007-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppskf.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b015ctwb30/09/2011Is it possible to give listeners access to the riches of the BBC archive - without releasing material that was deemed acceptable when it was made but is offensive now? As you voice concerns about Orwellian attitudes, Roger ask David Jordon, director of Editorial Policy and standards what the rules are.
And following a furore in the press Roger finds out if it's really no longer acceptable to use the terms AD and BC, instead of CE and BCE, on the airwaves?
We celebrate the 50th birthday of In Touch, BBC Radio 4's programme for blind and partially-sighted people, and ask whether the BBC is doing enough for listeners with disabilities. Liz Carr, presenter of the irreverent podcast Ouch!, drops in on the different networks to find out what's on offer.
And a listener has sent in a play-let. It's set in a dark basement, features fingernail extraction, and stars a character called Roger Wright, apparently the controller of Radio 3...
Presented by Roger Bolton, this is the place to air your views on the things you hear on BBC Radio.
This programme's content is entirely directed by you.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.We celebrate the 50th birthday of In Touch. Presented by Roger Bolton.Is it possible to give listeners access to the riches of the BBC archive - without releasing material that was deemed acceptable when it was made but is offensive now? As you voice concerns about Orwellian attitudes, Roger ask David Jordon, director of Editorial Policy and standards what the rules are.
And following a furore in the press Roger finds out if it's really no longer acceptable to use the terms AD and BC, instead of CE and BCE, on the airwaves?
We celebrate the 50th birthday of In Touch, BBC Radio 4's programme for blind and partially-sighted people, and ask whether the BBC is doing enough for listeners with disabilities. Liz Carr, presenter of the irreverent podcast Ouch!, drops in on the different networks to find out what's on offer.
And a listener has sent in a play-let. It's set in a dark basement, features fingernail extraction, and stars a character called Roger Wright, apparently the controller of Radio 3...
Presented by Roger Bolton, this is the place to air your views on the things you hear on BBC Radio.
This programme's content is entirely directed by you.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 30 Sep 2011 01:00:00 +01001660http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20110930-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppskh.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b0151xsm23/09/2011Does light music still have a place on the BBC? As listeners voice their doubts, Radio 2 controller Bob Shennan explains his decision to end Alan Titchmarsh's programme Melodies for You.
As Americana also comes to an end over on Radio 4, Roger recalls controller Gwyneth Williams' reasons for the change and hears your reaction to the comedy which replaces it.
The sounds of the past transport Roger back in time as he visits the new BBC Archive building, and hears about an ambitious project to make all the archive available in time for the BBC's 100th birthday in 2022.
And as Philip Glass-watch moves into its second week, there's yet another sighting of the composer's ubiquitous piece.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Does light music still have a place on the BBC?Does light music still have a place on the BBC? As listeners voice their doubts, Radio 2 controller Bob Shennan explains his decision to end Alan Titchmarsh's programme Melodies for You.
As Americana also comes to an end over on Radio 4, Roger recalls controller Gwyneth Williams' reasons for the change and hears your reaction to the comedy which replaces it.
The sounds of the past transport Roger back in time as he visits the new BBC Archive building, and hears about an ambitious project to make all the archive available in time for the BBC's 100th birthday in 2022.
And as Philip Glass-watch moves into its second week, there's yet another sighting of the composer's ubiquitous piece.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 23 Sep 2011 01:00:00 +01001660http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20110923-1639.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppskk.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b014qxbq16/09/2011Listeners' champion Roger Bolton returns with a new series of Feedback in which conflict inevitably plays its part.
From seemingly wall-to-wall coverage of 9/11 to changes to the Radio 3 schedule, Roger hears your views.
Got eight hours plus to spare next week? Roger finds out more about the making of Russian wartime epic "Life and Fate" which takes up all of Radio 4's drama slots next week (apart from The Archers) and he finds out how you will be listening.
We'll also be asking if the BBC's new services for Libya are part of a Foreign Office political offensive.
And is the BBC trying to save money by recycling Philip Glass? Listeners wonder after the same piece pops up five times in one week.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Conflict over 9/11 coverage and changes to R3 schedule.Listeners' champion Roger Bolton returns with a new series of Feedback in which conflict inevitably plays its part.
From seemingly wall-to-wall coverage of 9/11 to changes to the Radio 3 schedule, Roger hears your views.
Got eight hours plus to spare next week? Roger finds out more about the making of Russian wartime epic "Life and Fate" which takes up all of Radio 4's drama slots next week (apart from The Archers) and he finds out how you will be listening.
We'll also be asking if the BBC's new services for Libya are part of a Foreign Office political offensive.
And is the BBC trying to save money by recycling Philip Glass? Listeners wonder after the same piece pops up five times in one week.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 16 Sep 2011 01:00:00 +01001661http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20110916-1435.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppskm.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b014gjw529/07/2011The controller of Radio 4 Gwyneth Williams takes questions directly from listeners on her recently announced plans to shake-up the schedule. Listeners tackle her on the controversial decision to cut afternoon readings from three to just one a week from next April.
She also defends the axing of On The Ropes and The Choice and explains why more news is needed at lunchtime.
Andy Parfitt, the controller of Radio 1 tells Roger Bolton why he is leaving the station after 13 years at the helm.
And this summer, Radio 3 is making every one of its Proms concerts available in high definition. But will the sound quality be that much better?
Contact the Feedback team to let Roger know what you'd like him to tackle this series about anything you've heard on BBC radio.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Radio 4 controller on cutting short stories and other changes.The controller of Radio 4 Gwyneth Williams takes questions directly from listeners on her recently announced plans to shake-up the schedule. Listeners tackle her on the controversial decision to cut afternoon readings from three to just one a week from next April.
She also defends the axing of On The Ropes and The Choice and explains why more news is needed at lunchtime.
Andy Parfitt, the controller of Radio 1 tells Roger Bolton why he is leaving the station after 13 years at the helm.
And this summer, Radio 3 is making every one of its Proms concerts available in high definition. But will the sound quality be that much better?
Contact the Feedback team to let Roger know what you'd like him to tackle this series about anything you've heard on BBC radio.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 29 Jul 2011 01:00:00 +01001658http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20110729-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppskp.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b012r99l22/07/2011Roger Bolton gives a Feedback listener an access all areas backstage pass to the Today programme. Francesca Fenn talks to Sarah Montague, Charlotte Green and John Humphrys.
Roger puts your queries to Ceri Thomas the editor of Today including length of items, gender balance and Murdoch overkill.
A Feedback listener has a miserable Sunday night listening to Pick of the Week.
And will the "visualisation of radio" mean early retirement for those with "a good face for radio"?
Plus the World Service's Director of Global News Peter Horrocks talks about falling listeners and new funding models.
Contact the Feedback team to let Roger know what you'd like him to tackle this series about anything you've heard on BBC radio.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Roger takes a listener behind the scenes of the Today programme and interviews its editor.Roger Bolton gives a Feedback listener an access all areas backstage pass to the Today programme. Francesca Fenn talks to Sarah Montague, Charlotte Green and John Humphrys.
Roger puts your queries to Ceri Thomas the editor of Today including length of items, gender balance and Murdoch overkill.
A Feedback listener has a miserable Sunday night listening to Pick of the Week.
And will the "visualisation of radio" mean early retirement for those with "a good face for radio"?
Plus the World Service's Director of Global News Peter Horrocks talks about falling listeners and new funding models.
Contact the Feedback team to let Roger know what you'd like him to tackle this series about anything you've heard on BBC radio.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 22 Jul 2011 01:00:00 +01001655http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20110722-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppskr.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b012lls515/07/2011Have BBC journalists overindulged in the Murdoch meltdown? Roger Bolton puts your thoughts to Mary Hockaday the head of the BBC newsroom.
What's your reaction to changes to the Radio 4 schedule? More news and more comedy? Roger finds out what's in store.
And "watching" the radio - more networks are wheeling in the cameras to get their guests and presenters on screen as well as on air. But why?
Contact the Feedback team to let Roger know what you'd like him to tackle this series about anything you've heard on BBC radio.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Murdoch news overkill? Watching the radio and more about changes to Radio 4 schedule.Have BBC journalists overindulged in the Murdoch meltdown? Roger Bolton puts your thoughts to Mary Hockaday the head of the BBC newsroom.
What's your reaction to changes to the Radio 4 schedule? More news and more comedy? Roger finds out what's in store.
And "watching" the radio - more networks are wheeling in the cameras to get their guests and presenters on screen as well as on air. But why?
Contact the Feedback team to let Roger know what you'd like him to tackle this series about anything you've heard on BBC radio.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 15 Jul 2011 01:00:00 +01001652http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20110715-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppnh0.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b012ftrz08/07/2011Was the Today programme interview with boxer David Haye below the belt? Many listeners felt robustness strayed unnecessarily into rudeness.
Listeners query whether the fashion sense of Christine Lagarde, the new Head of the IMF, would have been scrutinised as it was on Radio 4's Profile if she was a man.
And Lord Patten uses his first public lecture to announce the streamlining of the BBC complaints procedure, and substantial cuts in the pay and perks offered to the corporation's executives.
Contact the Feedback team to let Roger Bolton know what you'd like him to tackle this series about anything you've heard on BBC radio.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fisticuffs on Today, fashion fever on Profile and Lord Patten's first public speech.Was the Today programme interview with boxer David Haye below the belt? Many listeners felt robustness strayed unnecessarily into rudeness.
Listeners query whether the fashion sense of Christine Lagarde, the new Head of the IMF, would have been scrutinised as it was on Radio 4's Profile if she was a man.
And Lord Patten uses his first public lecture to announce the streamlining of the BBC complaints procedure, and substantial cuts in the pay and perks offered to the corporation's executives.
Contact the Feedback team to let Roger Bolton know what you'd like him to tackle this series about anything you've heard on BBC radio.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 08 Jul 2011 01:00:00 +01001652http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20110708-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppnh2.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b012942b01/07/2011The BBC complaints system needs an overhaul says an influential House of Lords Committee. Frustrated listeners agree.
Roger visits the BBC Weather Centre to find out where north ends and south begins and to find out what a "sandwich of weather" is. Should forecasts substitute detail for metaphor?
Hundreds of listeners have contributed to PM's Privacy Commission which is drawing a line between public interest and personal intrusion. Roger interviews the programme editor to find out how useful listener comments have been and to see what happens to all the information that's been gathered.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Complaints about BBC complaints system, Roger at Weather Centre, PM privacy commission.The BBC complaints system needs an overhaul says an influential House of Lords Committee. Frustrated listeners agree.
Roger visits the BBC Weather Centre to find out where north ends and south begins and to find out what a "sandwich of weather" is. Should forecasts substitute detail for metaphor?
Hundreds of listeners have contributed to PM's Privacy Commission which is drawing a line between public interest and personal intrusion. Roger interviews the programme editor to find out how useful listener comments have been and to see what happens to all the information that's been gathered.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 01 Jul 2011 01:00:00 +01001653http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20110701-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppnh6.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b0124qtm24/06/2011What is the secret of making children's radio - which children actually want to listen to?
As listeners young and old object to the loss of much of BBC children's on-air programming, Roger Bolton asks Paul Smith, Head of Editorial Standards for BBC Audio & Music, if the BBC has given up trying to find an answer. Gregory Watson, Managing Director of children's station Fun Kids and Susan Stranks of the National Campaign for Children's Radio add their views to the debate.
Does BBC 6 Music really offer an alternative to more mainstream stations? If so, why is it playing so much Coldplay? Bob Shennan, controller of 6 Music, defends the playlist.
And listeners have been concocting fake Radio 4 programmes on Twitter. Apparently Feedback is 30 minutes of unbearable noise.
Contact the Feedback team to let Roger know what you'd like him to tackle this series about anything you've heard on BBC radio.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.What does the future hold for children's radio? And is BBC 6Music losing its edge?What is the secret of making children's radio - which children actually want to listen to?
As listeners young and old object to the loss of much of BBC children's on-air programming, Roger Bolton asks Paul Smith, Head of Editorial Standards for BBC Audio & Music, if the BBC has given up trying to find an answer. Gregory Watson, Managing Director of children's station Fun Kids and Susan Stranks of the National Campaign for Children's Radio add their views to the debate.
Does BBC 6 Music really offer an alternative to more mainstream stations? If so, why is it playing so much Coldplay? Bob Shennan, controller of 6 Music, defends the playlist.
And listeners have been concocting fake Radio 4 programmes on Twitter. Apparently Feedback is 30 minutes of unbearable noise.
Contact the Feedback team to let Roger know what you'd like him to tackle this series about anything you've heard on BBC radio.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 24 Jun 2011 01:00:00 +01001655http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20110624-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppnh9.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b012078c17/06/2011Roger Bolton encounters a sticky problem on You and Yours after listeners question the validity of a nine minute report on a doughnut manufacturer. You and Yours editor Andrew Smith defends the decision.
Radio 3 devotee Chris Newman joins Roger for a behind the scenes visit to a live broadcast and find out some of the unexpected things that can go wrong during a performance.
And 25,000 of you submitted your Desert Island Discs - so why were only five listeners' stories featured in a special programme celebrating the public's favourite discs? Desert Island Discs editor Alice Feinstein explains why- and says she hopes there's more to come.
Contact the Feedback team to let Roger know what you'd like him to tackle this series about anything you've heard on BBC radio.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.A sticky problem on You and Yours and the perils of live broadcasting on Radio 3.Roger Bolton encounters a sticky problem on You and Yours after listeners question the validity of a nine minute report on a doughnut manufacturer. You and Yours editor Andrew Smith defends the decision.
Radio 3 devotee Chris Newman joins Roger for a behind the scenes visit to a live broadcast and find out some of the unexpected things that can go wrong during a performance.
And 25,000 of you submitted your Desert Island Discs - so why were only five listeners' stories featured in a special programme celebrating the public's favourite discs? Desert Island Discs editor Alice Feinstein explains why- and says she hopes there's more to come.
Contact the Feedback team to let Roger know what you'd like him to tackle this series about anything you've heard on BBC radio.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 17 Jun 2011 01:00:00 +01001658http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20110617-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppnhd.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b011vjhf10/06/2011Radio 5Live has been accused by its commercial rival as being too focused on footie and being weak on news. Some listeners agree and the BBC Trust says more clarity is needed. Roger asks Adrian Van Klaveren, the controller of Radio 5Live to answer your criticisms.
Is there a one-size fits all to Today programme interviews? Father Ted creator Graham Linehan wonders why there are "no positions possible except diametrically opposed ones". Many of you back him up.
And the endless search for new comedy talent for BBC radio. A Feedback listener gets an access all areas pass to the Radio 2 New Comedy Awards to find out what the judges are looking for.
Contact the Feedback team to let Roger know what you'd like him to tackle this series about anything you've heard on BBC radio.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.5 Live or Radio Bloke? One-size fits all approach on Today? Search for new comedy talent.Radio 5Live has been accused by its commercial rival as being too focused on footie and being weak on news. Some listeners agree and the BBC Trust says more clarity is needed. Roger asks Adrian Van Klaveren, the controller of Radio 5Live to answer your criticisms.
Is there a one-size fits all to Today programme interviews? Father Ted creator Graham Linehan wonders why there are "no positions possible except diametrically opposed ones". Many of you back him up.
And the endless search for new comedy talent for BBC radio. A Feedback listener gets an access all areas pass to the Radio 2 New Comedy Awards to find out what the judges are looking for.
Contact the Feedback team to let Roger know what you'd like him to tackle this series about anything you've heard on BBC radio.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 10 Jun 2011 01:00:00 +01001664http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20110610-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppnhh.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b011pppm03/06/2011Is local radio in England worth its £110 million budget? Roger returns to his home county of Cumbria to speak to listeners there about why their local BBC radio station is one of the most popular in the country.
And you wanted to hear more from Sharon Shoesmith, the former director of Haringey children's services. Maybe you would have if it was someone other than John Humphrys interviewing her on The Today programme.
How many children listen to the radio in the middle of the night? None we hope, so why are so many of you being kept awake by CBeebies programmes at 2 o'clock in the morning? Radio 4's Network Manager Denis Nowlan explains.
And what exactly is a lamb bank? Well it helps save the lives of thousands of lambs each year - and there no bonuses involved.
Contact the Feedback team to let Roger know what else you'd like him to tackle this series about anything you've heard on BBC radio.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Roger Bolton assesses local radio. What keeps you up at night - CBeebies?Is local radio in England worth its £110 million budget? Roger returns to his home county of Cumbria to speak to listeners there about why their local BBC radio station is one of the most popular in the country.
And you wanted to hear more from Sharon Shoesmith, the former director of Haringey children's services. Maybe you would have if it was someone other than John Humphrys interviewing her on The Today programme.
How many children listen to the radio in the middle of the night? None we hope, so why are so many of you being kept awake by CBeebies programmes at 2 o'clock in the morning? Radio 4's Network Manager Denis Nowlan explains.
And what exactly is a lamb bank? Well it helps save the lives of thousands of lambs each year - and there no bonuses involved.
Contact the Feedback team to let Roger know what else you'd like him to tackle this series about anything you've heard on BBC radio.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 03 Jun 2011 01:00:00 +01001661http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20110603-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppnhk.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b011jx0f27/05/2011The Moral Maze prides itself on robust discussion, but many listeners thought this week's programme was more about bad manners than reasoned argument. Did they go too far? Or is all fair in love and debate?
Could Chris Evans be the saviour of children's radio? Quite possibly, judging by the massive response to his short story competition, 500 Words. Ahead of next week's announcement of the winners, executive producer Helen Thomas reveals what it is about the Radio 2 Breakfast Show that appeals to all ages.
Inspired by all this youthful talent, Feedback is searching for the radio critics of the future. If you are 13 or under do please write to us with your views on what you love - or hate - about anything at all on BBC Radio.
And local radio - what is it good for? Roger talks to David Holdsworth, who's in charge of all 40 of the BBC's radio stations in England to find out why we still need it in the internet age.
Contact the Feedback team to let Roger know what you'd like him to tackle this series about anything you've heard on BBC radio.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Was Moral Maze more bullying than serious debate?The Moral Maze prides itself on robust discussion, but many listeners thought this week's programme was more about bad manners than reasoned argument. Did they go too far? Or is all fair in love and debate?
Could Chris Evans be the saviour of children's radio? Quite possibly, judging by the massive response to his short story competition, 500 Words. Ahead of next week's announcement of the winners, executive producer Helen Thomas reveals what it is about the Radio 2 Breakfast Show that appeals to all ages.
Inspired by all this youthful talent, Feedback is searching for the radio critics of the future. If you are 13 or under do please write to us with your views on what you love - or hate - about anything at all on BBC Radio.
And local radio - what is it good for? Roger talks to David Holdsworth, who's in charge of all 40 of the BBC's radio stations in England to find out why we still need it in the internet age.
Contact the Feedback team to let Roger know what you'd like him to tackle this series about anything you've heard on BBC radio.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 27 May 2011 01:00:00 +01001657http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20110527-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppnhn.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b011ckxg20/05/2011Too many repeats, schedule changes and the loss of much of the children's programming. Fans of the former BBC Radio 7 lament its loss and challenge the station's head of programming Mary Kalemkerian over the changes she's made to the station that's now called Radio 4 Extra.
Incest, murder and trench warfare - is Book at Bedtime too dour? Radio 4 commissioning editor Caroline Raphael explains how books are chosen for the late night slot and hears your pleas to let listeners know details of music featured in the programmes.
And the controller of Radio 4 Gwyneth Williams reveals how she stopped The Archers being moved from Radio 4 to Radio 4 Extra.
Contact the Feedback team to let Roger know what you'd like him to tackle this series about anything you've heard on BBC radio.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Angry listeners vent concerns over re-vamped Radio 4 Extra. Is Book at Bedtime too sordid?Too many repeats, schedule changes and the loss of much of the children's programming. Fans of the former BBC Radio 7 lament its loss and challenge the station's head of programming Mary Kalemkerian over the changes she's made to the station that's now called Radio 4 Extra.
Incest, murder and trench warfare - is Book at Bedtime too dour? Radio 4 commissioning editor Caroline Raphael explains how books are chosen for the late night slot and hears your pleas to let listeners know details of music featured in the programmes.
And the controller of Radio 4 Gwyneth Williams reveals how she stopped The Archers being moved from Radio 4 to Radio 4 Extra.
Contact the Feedback team to let Roger know what you'd like him to tackle this series about anything you've heard on BBC radio.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 20 May 2011 01:00:00 +01001659http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20110520-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppnhq.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b01130pv25/03/2011If the pips are always late on DAB radio, how will we know what the real time is when we all switch over to digital?
Roger Bolton talks to Rupert Brun, the BBC's head of technology who says - actually - we won't.
Some listeners question Jenni Murray's use of language during her recent stand-up routine for Comic Relief - the Woman's Hour presenter reveals why she abandoned PC in favour of street slang.
Sir Michael Lyons is coming to the end of a turbulent four years as the chairman of the BBC Trust. In his last interview for Feedback he discusses whether the BBC "lost its moral compass" during the Ross/Brand affair, how executive pay was brought into line and how listeners will be consulted on the next round of BBC cuts.
And MPs put their weight behind your arguments in favour of local radio.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.A brief history of time. BBC Trust chairman talks about the BBC losing 'its moral compass'If the pips are always late on DAB radio, how will we know what the real time is when we all switch over to digital?
Roger Bolton talks to Rupert Brun, the BBC's head of technology who says - actually - we won't.
Some listeners question Jenni Murray's use of language during her recent stand-up routine for Comic Relief - the Woman's Hour presenter reveals why she abandoned PC in favour of street slang.
Sir Michael Lyons is coming to the end of a turbulent four years as the chairman of the BBC Trust. In his last interview for Feedback he discusses whether the BBC "lost its moral compass" during the Ross/Brand affair, how executive pay was brought into line and how listeners will be consulted on the next round of BBC cuts.
And MPs put their weight behind your arguments in favour of local radio.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 25 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +00001665http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20110325-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppnht.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b00zm48218/03/2011In the week that the fate of the Asian Network is being reconsidered, Roger Bolton talks to controller Andy Parfitt about the station's future. Parfitt also heads Radio 1, and three young listeners join the interview to quiz him on the network's approach to celebrity presenters and listening on digital.
Is it ever possible to have too much of a good thing? Archers fans will have the opportunity to find out, following the announcement that the spin-off Ambridge Extra will be launching on the digital station Radio 4 Extra in April. Head of Programmes Mary Kalemkerian reveals all.
And many of you were deeply moved by the Afternoon Play, "Black Roses: The Killing of Sophie Lancaster". Sylvia Lancaster, Sophie's mother, joins Roger to talk about why she agreed to take part in the production. She explains how Simon Armitage, whose poetry featured in the production, captured her daughter's voice perfectly.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Radio 1 listeners quiz controller Andy Parfitt, and what's extra about Ambridge extra?In the week that the fate of the Asian Network is being reconsidered, Roger Bolton talks to controller Andy Parfitt about the station's future. Parfitt also heads Radio 1, and three young listeners join the interview to quiz him on the network's approach to celebrity presenters and listening on digital.
Is it ever possible to have too much of a good thing? Archers fans will have the opportunity to find out, following the announcement that the spin-off Ambridge Extra will be launching on the digital station Radio 4 Extra in April. Head of Programmes Mary Kalemkerian reveals all.
And many of you were deeply moved by the Afternoon Play, "Black Roses: The Killing of Sophie Lancaster". Sylvia Lancaster, Sophie's mother, joins Roger to talk about why she agreed to take part in the production. She explains how Simon Armitage, whose poetry featured in the production, captured her daughter's voice perfectly.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 18 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +00001656http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20110318-1500.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppnhx.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b00zf5sw13/03/2011This week Lord Patten, the new chairman of the BBC Trust, faced a grilling from a parliamentary select committee. Did he impress? Roger Bolton asks Jocelyn Hay of the Voice of the Listener and Viewer and the chairman of that committee John Whittingdale MP for their assessment.
Twelve-year-old schoolboy Jojo Baidoo, beat the stage school darlings to become the leading man in this week's Book at Bedtime on Radio 4.
BBC Radio 7 is poised to relaunch as BBC Radio 4 Extra, offering among other things 500 archive episodes of Desert Island Discs. But many of you are still unconvinced by the sound quality and coverage offered by digital radio. Tim Davie, the BBC's head of audio and music, tells Roger why he still believes there is no downside to digital.
Will the BBC Hindi Service continue on shortwave? To the dismay of many it was due to be axed at the end of this month but alternative funding may now be available. Editor Amit Baruah shares the heartfelt thanks of some of its 11 million listeners.
And listeners wonder what happened to the last episode of Radio 4 comedy Mordrin McDonald? Did it disappear into the mists of time?
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.A new chairman for the BBC Trust, a new name for Radio 7 and a reprieve for BBC Hindi.This week Lord Patten, the new chairman of the BBC Trust, faced a grilling from a parliamentary select committee. Did he impress? Roger Bolton asks Jocelyn Hay of the Voice of the Listener and Viewer and the chairman of that committee John Whittingdale MP for their assessment.
Twelve-year-old schoolboy Jojo Baidoo, beat the stage school darlings to become the leading man in this week's Book at Bedtime on Radio 4.
BBC Radio 7 is poised to relaunch as BBC Radio 4 Extra, offering among other things 500 archive episodes of Desert Island Discs. But many of you are still unconvinced by the sound quality and coverage offered by digital radio. Tim Davie, the BBC's head of audio and music, tells Roger why he still believes there is no downside to digital.
Will the BBC Hindi Service continue on shortwave? To the dismay of many it was due to be axed at the end of this month but alternative funding may now be available. Editor Amit Baruah shares the heartfelt thanks of some of its 11 million listeners.
And listeners wonder what happened to the last episode of Radio 4 comedy Mordrin McDonald? Did it disappear into the mists of time?
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Sun, 13 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +00001660http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20110313-2030.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppnhz.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b00z629z04/03/2011Roger Bolton turns up at Hardeep Singh Kohli's flat to ask some personal questions - including who gave him his first kiss?
At the end of this month, millions of fans of the BBC Hindi Service will no longer be able to listen on shortwave. Roger speaks to Rifat Jawaid, editor of language programmes at the BBC Asian Network, about his Indian family's passion for the service.
And many of you have trouble understanding speech when it's accompanied by background music. So why do producers persist in using it? Roger quizzes Simon Elmes the BBC's Creative Director, Features & Documentaries and others, on the subject.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Hardeep Singh Kohli's first kiss, music and speech. Presented by Roger Bolton.Roger Bolton turns up at Hardeep Singh Kohli's flat to ask some personal questions - including who gave him his first kiss?
At the end of this month, millions of fans of the BBC Hindi Service will no longer be able to listen on shortwave. Roger speaks to Rifat Jawaid, editor of language programmes at the BBC Asian Network, about his Indian family's passion for the service.
And many of you have trouble understanding speech when it's accompanied by background music. So why do producers persist in using it? Roger quizzes Simon Elmes the BBC's Creative Director, Features & Documentaries and others, on the subject.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 04 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +00001657http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20110304-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppnj4.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b00yz54z25/02/2011The candid confessional of an alcoholic doctor gripped listeners of Victoria Derbyshire's 5Live phone in last week. Lots of people praised the presenter's "sensitive handling" as listener "Rachel" talked about her long term battle with drink and depression. But what steps are taken to ensure that candid confessional is not just mass entertainment? Roger Bolton talks to Louisa Compton, daytime editor of 5Live.
How many BBC journalists does it take to report a revolution? Too many, say many Feedback listeners, who believe, for example, that Jim Naughtie's presence in Cairo for the Today programme was one too many. Roger talks to Fran Unsworth, the BBC's head of newsgathering who justifies the numbers.
And getting the accents right in BBC drama. At a time when the BBC Trust is encouraging Radio 4 to reach out further to listeners outside of London and the south east - should more care be taken over regional accents? We ask an expert linguist to listen to a recent afternoon play and give his verdict.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.The fine line between candid confessional and entertainment. Counting the cost of Cairo.The candid confessional of an alcoholic doctor gripped listeners of Victoria Derbyshire's 5Live phone in last week. Lots of people praised the presenter's "sensitive handling" as listener "Rachel" talked about her long term battle with drink and depression. But what steps are taken to ensure that candid confessional is not just mass entertainment? Roger Bolton talks to Louisa Compton, daytime editor of 5Live.
How many BBC journalists does it take to report a revolution? Too many, say many Feedback listeners, who believe, for example, that Jim Naughtie's presence in Cairo for the Today programme was one too many. Roger talks to Fran Unsworth, the BBC's head of newsgathering who justifies the numbers.
And getting the accents right in BBC drama. At a time when the BBC Trust is encouraging Radio 4 to reach out further to listeners outside of London and the south east - should more care be taken over regional accents? We ask an expert linguist to listen to a recent afternoon play and give his verdict.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 25 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +00001655http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20110225-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppnj7.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b00yrg1v18/02/2011Roger Bolton visits in Salford with Feedback listeners Heather Howarth and Delphine Price to explore the Media City UK development. He asks them if moving more programmes to BBC North will make them more representative of northern life and whether they actually care where their programmes come from.
And down the road in Manchester, Mark Radcliffe and Stuart Maconie are preparing to shift their popular evening banter on Radio 2 to an afternoon slot on 6 Music. Roger talks to the station's controller Bob Shennan about his decision and asks him if he's doing enough for older Radio 2 listeners.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Roger is in Salford - the new home of BBC North.Roger Bolton visits in Salford with Feedback listeners Heather Howarth and Delphine Price to explore the Media City UK development. He asks them if moving more programmes to BBC North will make them more representative of northern life and whether they actually care where their programmes come from.
And down the road in Manchester, Mark Radcliffe and Stuart Maconie are preparing to shift their popular evening banter on Radio 2 to an afternoon slot on 6 Music. Roger talks to the station's controller Bob Shennan about his decision and asks him if he's doing enough for older Radio 2 listeners.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 18 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +00001655http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20110218-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppnjb.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b00yjt8v11/02/2011Radio 4 is being encouraged to reach beyond its largely white, better off, southern audience by the BBC Trust. But you say don't change a thing. Roger Bolton unpicks the BBC Trust's report on Radio's 3, 4 and 7.
Listener Sasha Lubetkin visits the British Museum and the BBC's pronunciation unit to find out more about the BBC's role as defender of the English language.
Are The Archers getting too cosy with the Palace?
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Should Radio 4 try to attract a broader audience? Listeners say no.Radio 4 is being encouraged to reach beyond its largely white, better off, southern audience by the BBC Trust. But you say don't change a thing. Roger Bolton unpicks the BBC Trust's report on Radio's 3, 4 and 7.
Listener Sasha Lubetkin visits the British Museum and the BBC's pronunciation unit to find out more about the BBC's role as defender of the English language.
Are The Archers getting too cosy with the Palace?
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 11 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +00001660http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20110211-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppnjd.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b00y9tbv04/02/2011Peter Horrocks, the BBC's director of global news, talks through the implications of massive cuts to the World Service.
Plus your concerns about changes to music programming nationally and locally as Radio 2 moves Stuart Maconie and Mark Radcliffe across to 6 Music to make way for Jo Whiley. Are there too many American voices on Radio 4? And you suggest alternative futures for Nigel Pargetter in The Archers.
Presented by Roger Bolton, this is the place to air your views on the things you hear on BBC Radio.
This programme's content is entirely directed by you.
So email: feedback@bbc.co.uk.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Head of the World Service on massive cuts to the network. Presented by Roger Bolton.Peter Horrocks, the BBC's director of global news, talks through the implications of massive cuts to the World Service.
Plus your concerns about changes to music programming nationally and locally as Radio 2 moves Stuart Maconie and Mark Radcliffe across to 6 Music to make way for Jo Whiley. Are there too many American voices on Radio 4? And you suggest alternative futures for Nigel Pargetter in The Archers.
Presented by Roger Bolton, this is the place to air your views on the things you hear on BBC Radio.
This programme's content is entirely directed by you.
So email: feedback@bbc.co.uk.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 04 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +00001655http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20110204-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppnjk.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b00y2c3128/01/2011Roger Bolton returns with a new series. Radio 4's new controller gives her first broadcast interview to Feedback and reveals her plans for the network - new programmes, new voices and a "new layer of creativity".
And as hundreds of Feedback listeners mourn the passing of Nigel Pargetter - two avid Archers listeners take a tour of the Archers studio and put your questions to the programme's editor Vanessa Whitburn.
Plus news of dramatic cuts at the World Service where five language services are to close and 650 jobs will go.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Angry listeners take Archers editor to task and Radio 4 controller unveils her new plans.Roger Bolton returns with a new series. Radio 4's new controller gives her first broadcast interview to Feedback and reveals her plans for the network - new programmes, new voices and a "new layer of creativity".
And as hundreds of Feedback listeners mourn the passing of Nigel Pargetter - two avid Archers listeners take a tour of the Archers studio and put your questions to the programme's editor Vanessa Whitburn.
Plus news of dramatic cuts at the World Service where five language services are to close and 650 jobs will go.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 28 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +00001653http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20110128-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppnjn.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b00xw5lg03/12/2010The BBC is the subject of its own news bulletins yet again. Roger speaks to the BBC's deputy director of news to find out how BBC radio reacts to stories about the Corporation.
After a tense week in the Dontenville household, Radio 4 nut Heather and her Radio 1 loving stepdaughter Jenni reveal how they got on after a week of listening to each other's stations.
The BBC Trust is looking for new members for its Regional Audience Councils - it could be you!
Email the team: feedback@bbc.co.uk
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.BBC in the headlines. RadioSwap results. How to have your say on the future of the Beeb.The BBC is the subject of its own news bulletins yet again. Roger speaks to the BBC's deputy director of news to find out how BBC radio reacts to stories about the Corporation.
After a tense week in the Dontenville household, Radio 4 nut Heather and her Radio 1 loving stepdaughter Jenni reveal how they got on after a week of listening to each other's stations.
The BBC Trust is looking for new members for its Regional Audience Councils - it could be you!
Email the team: feedback@bbc.co.uk
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 03 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +00001660http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20101203-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppnjr.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b00w7f7426/11/2010Aspiring comedian Richard Hanrahan desperate to break into BBC radio pitches his talents directly to the woman who can say yes.... Or ... er no thanks.
Praise for 'Atching Tan' - a play about, written by and acted by travellers. All information can be found online.
If you hate digital radio you'll be dreading 2015 - Tim Davie, the BBC's head of radio, tries to reassure you. And a Radio 4 fan and her Radio 1 loving step-daughter swap stations for a week.
Email the team: feedback@bbc.co.uk
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.New talent for R4 comedy. When will FM be switched off? A R4 listener swaps to R1 for a wkAspiring comedian Richard Hanrahan desperate to break into BBC radio pitches his talents directly to the woman who can say yes.... Or ... er no thanks.
Praise for 'Atching Tan' - a play about, written by and acted by travellers. All information can be found online.
If you hate digital radio you'll be dreading 2015 - Tim Davie, the BBC's head of radio, tries to reassure you. And a Radio 4 fan and her Radio 1 loving step-daughter swap stations for a week.
Email the team: feedback@bbc.co.uk
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 26 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +00001655http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20101126-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppnjt.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b00w236t19/11/2010Roger Bolton asks Archers actor Ryan Kelly, who plays Jazzer McCreary in The Archers, if his character is a stereotype of a drunken Scottish ne'er do well.
Check out the new Archers website: http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/features/the-archers/
A listener takes your gripes about the iPlayer revamp to the top - and demands straight answers.
And reporting from Rangoon last weekend - why were some reporters named while others remained anonymous. Jon Williams, the BBC's head of World News has the answer.
Email the team: feedback@bbc.co.uk
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Racial stereotypes in The Archers? And iPlayer - making the unmissable - unfindable?Roger Bolton asks Archers actor Ryan Kelly, who plays Jazzer McCreary in The Archers, if his character is a stereotype of a drunken Scottish ne'er do well.
Check out the new Archers website: http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/features/the-archers/
A listener takes your gripes about the iPlayer revamp to the top - and demands straight answers.
And reporting from Rangoon last weekend - why were some reporters named while others remained anonymous. Jon Williams, the BBC's head of World News has the answer.
Email the team: feedback@bbc.co.uk
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 19 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +00001659http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20101119-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppnjw.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b00vy3t912/11/2010Presented by Roger Bolton.
This week, Justin Webb explains why he wants to toughen up his act. But listeners say please don't as they rather enjoyed it when The Today programme was taken off the air by the recent national Union of Journalists' strike. It was replaced by gentler programmes including an audio essay about The Wash.
The novelist Joanna Trollope makes a plea for more adventurous drama on BBC Radio.
And should the BBC make people in the rest of the world pay for listening to its domestic services? Roger Bolton finds out if it's even possible.
Email the team: feedback@bbc.co.uk
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.A licence fee for overseas listeners? Justin Webb on interruptions in Today interviews.Presented by Roger Bolton.
This week, Justin Webb explains why he wants to toughen up his act. But listeners say please don't as they rather enjoyed it when The Today programme was taken off the air by the recent national Union of Journalists' strike. It was replaced by gentler programmes including an audio essay about The Wash.
The novelist Joanna Trollope makes a plea for more adventurous drama on BBC Radio.
And should the BBC make people in the rest of the world pay for listening to its domestic services? Roger Bolton finds out if it's even possible.
Email the team: feedback@bbc.co.uk
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 12 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +00001659http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20101112-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppnjy.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b00vryrd05/11/2010Radio 4's forum for comments, queries, criticisms and congratulations.
Presented by Roger Bolton, this is the place for listeners to air their views on the things heard on BBC Radio.
Email the team: feedback@bbc.co.uk
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Radio 4's forum for comments, queries, criticisms and congratulations.Radio 4's forum for comments, queries, criticisms and congratulations.
Presented by Roger Bolton, this is the place for listeners to air their views on the things heard on BBC Radio.
Email the team: feedback@bbc.co.uk
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 05 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +00001664http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20101105-1510.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppnk0.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b00vkyz529/10/2010Roger Bolton asks whether this was the best week for the Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg to wash up on Kirsty Young's Desert Island Discs.
As Peggy learns to cut and paste on The Archers, Roger examines the BBC's role in Government backed education campaigns.
And after Richard Herring's endorsement - listeners are desperate to know how to get hold of this season's must have Radio 4 hoodie.
Email the team: feedback@bbc.co.uk
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Roger Bolton investigates Desert Island Discs, the Archers and the art of scheduling.Roger Bolton asks whether this was the best week for the Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg to wash up on Kirsty Young's Desert Island Discs.
As Peggy learns to cut and paste on The Archers, Roger examines the BBC's role in Government backed education campaigns.
And after Richard Herring's endorsement - listeners are desperate to know how to get hold of this season's must have Radio 4 hoodie.
Email the team: feedback@bbc.co.uk
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 29 Oct 2010 01:00:00 +01001659http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20101029-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppnk2.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b00vh9hf22/10/2010Roger Bolton challenges the Chairman of the BBC Trust over the new licence fee deal.
How well will new editorial guidelines safeguard the impartiality of radio reporting? A History of the World in 100 objects - it's all over but was it worth it?
Do Desert Island Discs castaways have to take a religious book with them? And cuts overkill - how a trail for Radio 4 coverage invaded the airways at the wrong time.
Email the team: feedback@bbc.co.uk
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Your views on the new licence fee deal and History of the World in 100 objects.Roger Bolton challenges the Chairman of the BBC Trust over the new licence fee deal.
How well will new editorial guidelines safeguard the impartiality of radio reporting? A History of the World in 100 objects - it's all over but was it worth it?
Do Desert Island Discs castaways have to take a religious book with them? And cuts overkill - how a trail for Radio 4 coverage invaded the airways at the wrong time.
Email the team: feedback@bbc.co.uk
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 22 Oct 2010 01:00:00 +01001658http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20101022-1400.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppnk4.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b00vcqzg15/10/2010Roger Bolton investigates why hundreds of you are up-in-arms over changes to the BBC radio message boards.
As the Commonwealth Games athletes head home armed with medals some Feedback listeners wonder if the BBC's coverage has been too negative.
The World Service is rumoured to be facing a 25% cut in its budget - but should we be funding a global network?
As the world is gripped by the Chilean miners' rescue, some listeners ask - were there too many BBC reporters there?
And as You and Yours celebrates its 40th birthday, we ask what makes a successful long-running radio programme and find out which ones you think are past their sell-by date.
Email us at: Feedback@bbc.co.uk
For those of you interested in getting hold of Bryn Howarth's album "Inside Out" - as mentioned in last week's programme, it is available via the "Music in Ministry Trust" pages of his website.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Do programmes have a sell-by date? And message board mayhem - with Roger Bolton.Roger Bolton investigates why hundreds of you are up-in-arms over changes to the BBC radio message boards.
As the Commonwealth Games athletes head home armed with medals some Feedback listeners wonder if the BBC's coverage has been too negative.
The World Service is rumoured to be facing a 25% cut in its budget - but should we be funding a global network?
As the world is gripped by the Chilean miners' rescue, some listeners ask - were there too many BBC reporters there?
And as You and Yours celebrates its 40th birthday, we ask what makes a successful long-running radio programme and find out which ones you think are past their sell-by date.
Email us at: Feedback@bbc.co.uk
For those of you interested in getting hold of Bryn Howarth's album "Inside Out" - as mentioned in last week's programme, it is available via the "Music in Ministry Trust" pages of his website.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 15 Oct 2010 01:00:00 +01001658http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20101015-1700.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppnk6.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b00v73zk08/10/2010Roger Bolton hears what your ideas for what you would do if you were the new controller of Radio 4. He assesses how wrangles between the BBC and its staff over pensions will affect programme budgets.
And comedy writer Jon Holmes treads the fine line between brilliant comedy and bad taste in response to your praise and criticism of his show "Listen Against".
Email: feedback@bbc.co.uk.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.What should Radio 4's new controller look to change? Email: Feedback@bbc.co.uk.Roger Bolton hears what your ideas for what you would do if you were the new controller of Radio 4. He assesses how wrangles between the BBC and its staff over pensions will affect programme budgets.
And comedy writer Jon Holmes treads the fine line between brilliant comedy and bad taste in response to your praise and criticism of his show "Listen Against".
Email: feedback@bbc.co.uk.
Producer: Karen Pirie
A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.Fri, 08 Oct 2010 01:00:00 +01001662http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/feedback/feedback_20101008-1423.mp3http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02ppnk8.mp3 cleanBBC Radio 4/programmes/b00v1rjw